Footwear plate

ABSTRACT

A plate for an article of footwear includes a substrate, a first strand portion attached to the substrate via first stitching, and a second strand portion disposed on the first layer. The first strand portion includes first segments that each extend between two different locations along the substrate to form a first layer on the substrate. The second strand portion includes second segments that each extend between two different locations along the substrate to form a second layer on the first layer.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/574,889, filed Nov. 17, 2017, which is the national phase ofInternational Application No. PCT/US2017/043170, filed Jul. 20, 2017,which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.62/364,594, filed Jul. 20, 2016, to U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 62/364,585, filed Jul. 20, 2016, to U.S. Ser. No. 15/248,051, filedAug. 26, 2016, to U.S. Ser. No. 15/248,059, filed Aug. 26, 2016, and toU.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/474,030, filed Mar. 20, 2017,the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to articles of footwear including solestructures with footwear plates and foam for improving efficiency in theperformance of the footwear during running motions

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the presentdisclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Articles of footwear conventionally include an upper and a solestructure. The upper may be formed from any suitable material(s) toreceive, secure, and support a foot on the sole structure. The upper maycooperate with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit ofthe upper around the foot. A bottom portion of the upper, proximate to abottom surface of the foot, attaches to the sole structure.

Sole structures generally include a layered arrangement extendingbetween a ground surface and the upper. One layer of the sole structureincludes an outsole that provides abrasion-resistance and traction withthe ground surface. The outsole may be formed from rubber or othermaterials that impart durability and wear-resistance, as well asenhancing traction with the ground surface. Another layer of the solestructure includes a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper.The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and is generally at leastpartially formed from a polymer foam material that compressesresiliently under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuatingground-reaction forces. The midsole may define a bottom surface on oneside that opposes the outsole and a footbed on the opposite side thatmay be contoured to conform to a profile of the bottom surface of thefoot. Sole structures may also include a comfort-enhancing insole or asockliner located within a void proximate to the bottom portion of theupper.

The metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the foot is known to absorbenergy as it flexes through dorsiflexion during running movements. Asthe foot does not move through plantarflexion until the foot is pushingoff of a ground surface, the MTP joint returns little of the energy itabsorbs to the running movement and, thus, is known to be the source ofan energy drain during running movements. Embedding flat and rigidplates having longitudinal stiffness within a sole structure is known toincrease the overall stiffness thereof. While the use of flat platesstiffens the sole structure for reducing energy loss at the MTP joint bypreventing the MTP joint from absorbing energy through dorsiflexion, theuse of flat plates also adversely increases a mechanical demand on ankleplantarflexors of the foot, thereby reducing the efficiency of the footduring running movements, especially over longer distances.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only ofselected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an article of footwear in accordancewith principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 showinga footwear plate disposed upon a cushioning member within a cavitybetween an inner surface of an outsole and a bottom surface of amidsole;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 1 showinga footwear plate disposed upon a cushioning member within a cavitybetween an inner surface of an outsole and a bottom surface of amidsole;

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of an article of footwear in accordancewith principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the article of footwear of FIG. 4 showinga footwear plate disposed between a first cushioning member and a secondcushioning member within a cavity between an inner surface of an outsoleand a bottom surface of a midsole;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 4 showinga footwear plate disposed between a first cushioning member and a secondcushioning member within a cavity between an inner surface of an outsole and a bottom surface of a midsole;

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of an article of footwear in accordancewith principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the article of footwear of FIG. 7 showinga cushioning member received within a cavity between an inner surface ofan outsole and a bottom surface of a midsole, and a footwear platedisposed upon the inner surface in a forefoot region of the footwear andembedded within the cushioning member in a heel region of the footwear;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 7 showinga cushioning member received within a cavity between an inner surface ofan outsole and a bottom surface of a midsole, and a footwear platedisposed upon the inner surface in a forefoot region of the footwear andembedded within the cushioning member in a heel region of the footwear;

FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of an article of footwear inaccordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the article of footwear of FIG. 10showing a cushioning member received within a cavity between an innersurface of an outsole and a bottom surface of a midsole, and a footwearplate embedded within the cushioning member in a forefoot region of thefootwear and disposed between the cushioning member and the bottomsurface of midsole in a heel region of the footwear;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 10showing a cushioning member received within a cavity between an innersurface of an outsole and a bottom surface of a midsole, and a footwearplate embedded within the cushioning member in a forefoot region of thefootwear and disposed between the cushioning member and the bottomsurface of midsole in a heel region of the footwear;

FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of an article of footwear inaccordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of the article of footwear of FIG. 13showing a cushioning member received within a cavity between an innersurface of an outsole and a bottom surface of a midsole, and a footwearplate embedded within the cushioning member in a forefoot region of thefootwear and disposed between the cushioning member and the innersurface of the outsole in a heel region of the footwear;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 13showing a cushioning member received within a cavity between an innersurface of an outsole and a bottom surface of a midsole, and a footwearplate embedded within the cushioning member in a forefoot region of thefootwear and disposed between the cushioning member and the innersurface of the outsole in a heel region of the footwear;

FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of a footwear plate for use in anarticle of footwear in accordance with principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 17 is a side view of the footwear plate of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a top view of the footwear plate of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of a footwear plate for use in anarticle of footwear in accordance with principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 20 is a side view of the footwear plate of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a top view of the footwear plate of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of a footwear plate for use in anarticle of footwear in accordance with principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 23 is a side view of the footwear plate of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a top view of the footwear plate of FIG. 22;

FIG. 25 is a top view of a footwear plate for use in an article offootwear in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26 is a top view of a footwear plate for use in an forefoot regionof an article of footwear in accordance with principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 27 is a top view of a footwear plate for use in an article offootwear in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 28 is a top view of a footwear plate for use in an article offootwear in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 29 is a top view of a footwear plate for use in an article offootwear in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 30 is a top view of a footwear plate for use in an article offootwear in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 31 provides a top perspective view of an article of footwear inaccordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 32-32 of FIG. 31showing a footwear plate disposed between an outsole and a midsole in aforefoot region of the footwear and disposed between a cushioning memberand the midsole in a heel region of the footwear;

FIG. 33 provides a top perspective view of an article of footwear inaccordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 34-34 of FIG. 33showing a footwear plate disposed between an outsole and a cushioningmember;

FIG. 35 provides a top perspective view of an article of footwear inaccordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 36-36 of FIG. 35showing a plurality of apertures formed through an outsole and acushioning member to expose a footwear plate disposed between thecushioning member and a midsole;

FIG. 37 is a top perspective view of an article of footwear inaccordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 38 is an exploded view of the article of footwear of FIG. 37showing a fluid-filled bladder disposed upon a cushioning member withina cavity between an inner surface of an outsole and a bottom surface ofa midsole;

FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 39-39 of FIG. 37showing a fluid-filled bladder disposed upon a cushioning member withina cavity between an inner surface of an outsole and a bottom surface ofa midsole;

FIGS. 40A-40E show various prepreg fiber sheets used in forming afootwear plate in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 41 is an exploded view of a stack of prepreg fiber sheets used toform a footwear plate in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIGS. 42A-42E show various layers of fiber strands used in forming afootwear plate in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 43 is an exploded view of layers of fiber strands used to form afootwear plate in accordance with the principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a mold for use in forming a footwearplate in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, themold shown in conjunction with a stack of fibers prior to being formedinto a footwear plate;

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of a mold for use in forming a footwearplate in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, themold shown in conjunction with a formed footwear plate;

FIG. 46 is a top view of a substrate used to form a footwear plate inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 47 is a top view of a first tow of fibers attached to a top surfaceof the substrate of FIG. 46 to form a first layer on the substrate;

FIG. 48 is a top view of an embroidered preform including first, second,and third tows of fibers attached to the top surface of the substrate ofFIG. 46 to form corresponding first, second, and third layers on thesubstrate;

FIG. 49 is an exploded view of the embroidered preform of FIG. 48showing the first, second, and third tows of fibers and the substrate;

FIG. 50 is a close up view of the first tow of fibers of FIG. 47attached to the substrate via first stitching;

FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 51-51 of FIG. 50showing the first stitching attaching the first tow of fibers to a topsurface of the substrate and the fibers including non-polymer fibers andpolymer fibers;

FIG. 52 provides a top view of a tow of fibers attached to a substrateand forming a first layer on the substrate in accordance with principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 53 provides a detailed view of a portion of FIG. 52 showing the towincluding looped portions disposed proximate a peripheral edge of thesubstrate for connecting adjacent segments of the first tow;

FIG. 54 provides an exploded view of an embroidered preform including asubstrate and first, second, and third tows of fibers attached to thesubstrate to form corresponding first, second, and third layers on thesubstrate in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 55 provides a side-by-side top view of the substrate and the first,second, and third tows of fibers attached to the substrate of FIG. 54;

FIG. 56 provides a top view of a preform plate including a first tow offibers and a second tow of fibers disposed upon a top surface of asubstrate in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 57 provides a cross-sectional view taken along line 57-57 of FIG.56 showing the second tow of fibers disposed along a perimeter edge ofthe substrate to provide an outer reinforcement area for the first towof fibers;

FIG. 58 provides an alternate cross-sectional view taken along line57-57 of FIG. 56 showing a polymeric material replacing the second towof fibers to provide an outer reinforcement area for the first tow offibers;

FIG. 59 provides an alternate cross-sectional view taken along line57-57 of FIG. 56 showing a perimeter edge of the substrate including afold to provide an outer reinforcement area for the first tow of fibers;

FIG. 60 is a schematic view of a mold showing an embroidered preformincluding a tow of fibers attached to a substrate positioned between anupper mold portion of the mold and a lower mold portion of the mold whenthe mold is open in accordance with principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 61 is a schematic view of the mold of FIG. 60 showing theembroidered preform between the upper mold portion and the lower moldportion when the mold is closed; and

FIG. 62 is a schematic view of the mold of FIG. 60 showing the mold openand the embroidered preform molded and cured to form a substantiallyrigid footwear plate having a curved portion and a substantially flatportion imparted by the upper mold portion and the lower mold portion.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughoutthe drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example configurations will now be described more fully with referenceto the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided sothat this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scopeof the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specificdetails are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices,and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of configurations ofthe present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skillin the art that specific details need not be employed, that exampleconfigurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that thespecific details and the example configurations should not be construedto limit the scope of the disclosure.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularexemplary configurations only and is not intended to be limiting. Asused herein, the singular articles “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intendedto include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearlyindicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,”and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence offeatures, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do notpreclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps,operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The methodsteps, processes, and operations described herein are not to beconstrued as necessarily requiring their performance in the particularorder discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as anorder of performance. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,”“connected to,” “attached to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer,it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached, or coupled to theother element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may bepresent. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directlyon,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” “directly attachedto,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be nointervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe therelationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion(e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directlyadjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and allcombinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

The terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describevarious elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections. Theseelements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not belimited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish oneelement, component, region, layer or section from another region, layeror section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical termsdo not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by thecontext. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or sectiondiscussed below could be termed a second element, component, region,layer or section without departing from the teachings of the exampleconfigurations.

One aspect of the disclosure provides a sole structure for an article offootwear having an upper portion. The sole structure includes anoutsole, a plate disposed between the outsole and the upper, and a firstcushioning layer disposed between the concave portion and the upper. Theplate includes an anterior-most portion disposed in a forefoot region ofthe sole structure and a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heelregion of the sole structure than the anterior-most point. The platealso includes a concave portion extending between the anterior-mostpoint and the posterior-most point and including a constant radius ofcurvature from the anterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP)point of the sole structure. The MTP point opposes the MTP joint of afoot during use.

Implementations of the disclosure may include one or more of thefollowing optional features. In some implementations, the anterior-mostpoint and the posterior-most point are co-planar. The plate may alsoinclude a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure. The posterior-most point may be located within thesubstantially flat portion.

In some examples, the sole structure includes a blend portion disposedbetween and connecting the concave portion and the substantially flatportion. The blend portion may include a substantially constantcurvature. The anterior-most point and the posterior-most point may beco-planar at a junction of the blend portion and the substantially flatportion.

The sole structure may include a second cushioning layer disposedbetween the substantially flat portion and the upper. A third cushioninglayer may be disposed between the outsole and the plate. In someexamples, the third cushioning layer is disposed within the heel region.The third cushioning layer may extend from the heel region to theforefoot region.

The sole structure may also include at least one fluid-filled chamberdisposed between the plate and the upper and/or between the outsole andthe plate. The at least one fluid-filled chamber may be disposed withinat least one of the second cushioning layer and the third cushioninglayer.

In some examples, the MTP point is located approximately thirty percent(30%) of the total length of the plate from the anterior-most point. Acenter of the radius of curvature may be located at the MTP point. Theconstant radius of curvature may extend from the anterior-most pointpast the MTP point. The constant radius of curvature may extend from theanterior-most point past the MTP point at least forty percent (40%) ofthe total length of the plate from the anterior-most point.

In some examples, the outsole includes a ground-contacting surface andan inner surface formed on an opposite side of the outsole than theground-contact surface. The inner surface may be directly attached tothe plate. The inner surface may be attached to the plate proximate tothe concave portion.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a sole structure for anarticle of footwear having an upper. The sole structure includes anoutsole, a plate disposed between the outsole and the upper, and a firstcushioning layer disposed between the curved portion and the upper. Theplate includes an anterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region ofthe sole structure, and a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heelregion of the sole structure than the anterior-most point. The platealso includes a curved portion extending between and connecting theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point and including aconstant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point to ametatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure. The MTP pointopposes the MTP joint of a foot during use.

This aspect may include one or more of the following optional features.In some implementations, the anterior-most point and the posterior-mostpoint are co-planar. The plate may include a substantially flat portiondisposed within the heel region of the sole structure, theposterior-most point being located within the substantially flatportion.

In some examples, the sole structure includes a blend portion disposedbetween and connecting the curved portion and the substantially flatportion. The blend portion may include a substantially constantcurvature. The anterior-most point and the posterior-most point may beco-planar at a junction of the blend portion and the substantially flatportion.

The sole structure may include a second cushioning layer disposedbetween the substantially flat portion and the upper. A third cushioninglayer may be disposed between the outsole and the plate. The thirdcushioning layer may be disposed within the heel region. The thirdcushioning layer may extend from the heel region to the forefoot region.

In some examples, the sole structure includes at least one fluid-filledchamber disposed between the plate and the upper and/or between theoutsole and the plate. At least one fluid-filled chamber may be disposedwithin at least one of the second cushioning layer and the thirdcushioning layer.

In some examples, the MTP point is located approximately thirty percent(30%) of the total length of the plate from the anterior-most point. Acenter of the radius of curvature may be located at the MTP point. Theconstant radius of curvature may extend from the anterior-most pointpast the MTP point. The constant radius of curvature may extend from theanterior-most point past the MTP point at least forty percent (40%) ofthe total length of the plate from the anterior-most point.

The outsole may include a ground-contacting surface and an inner surfaceformed on an opposite side of the outsole than the ground-contactsurface. The inner surface may be directly attached to the plate. Theinner surface may be attached to the plate proximate to the curvedportion.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure provides a sole structure for anarticle of footwear having an upper. The sole structure includes anoutsole, a plate disposed between the outsole, and the upper and a firstcushioning layer disposed between the curved portion and the upper. Theplate includes an anterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region ofthe sole structure and a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heelregion of the sole structure than the anterior-most point. The platealso includes a curved portion extending between and connecting theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point and including acircular curvature from the anterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal(MTP) point of the sole structure. The MTP point opposes the MTP jointof a foot during use.

This aspect may include one or more of the following optional features.In some implementations, the anterior-most point and the posterior-mostpoint are co-planar. The plate may include a substantially flat portiondisposed within the heel region of the sole structure. Theposterior-most point may be located within the substantially flatportion. The plate may also include a substantially flat portiondisposed within the heel region of the sole structure. Theposterior-most point may be located within the substantially flatportion.

In some examples, the sole structure includes a blend portion disposedbetween and connecting the curved portion and the substantially flatportion. The blend portion includes a substantially constant curvature.The anterior-most point and the posterior-most point may be co-planar ata junction of the blend portion and the substantially flat portion.

The sole structure may include a second cushioning layer disposedbetween the substantially flat portion and the upper. A third cushioninglayer may be disposed between the outsole and the plate. The thirdcushioning layer may be disposed within the heel region. In someexamples, the third cushioning layer extends from the heel region to theforefoot region.

The sole structure may include at least one fluid-filled chamberdisposed between the plate and the upper and/or between the outsole andthe plate. The at least one fluid-filled chamber may be disposed withinat least one of the second cushioning layer and the third cushioninglayer.

In some examples, the MTP point is located approximately thirty percent(30%) of the total length of the plate from the anterior-most point. Acenter of the circular curvature may be located at the MTP point. Thecircular curvature may extend from the anterior-most point past the MTPpoint. The circular curvature may extend from the anterior-most pointpast the MTP point at least forty percent (40%) of the total length ofthe plate from the anterior-most point.

In some implementations, the outsole includes a ground-contactingsurface and an inner surface formed on an opposite side of the outsolethan the ground-contact surface. The inner surface may be directlyattached to the plate. Additionally or alternatively, the inner surfacemay be attached to the plate proximate to the curved portion. In someexamples, the sole structure further includes a second cushioning layerdisposed on an opposite side of the plate than the first cushioninglayer to form at least a portion of the outsole.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides a sole structure for anarticle of footwear having an upper portion. The sole structure includesan outsole, a plate disposed between the outsole and the upper, and afirst cushioning layer disposed between the concave portion and theupper. The plate includes an anterior-most portion disposed in aforefoot region of the sole structure and a posterior-most pointdisposed closer to a heel region of the sole structure than theanterior-most point. The plate also includes a concave portion extendingbetween the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point andincluding a constant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point toa metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure. The MTP pointopposes the MTP joint of a foot during use.

Implementations of the disclosure may include one or more of thefollowing optional features. In some implementations, the anterior-mostpoint and the posterior-most point are co-planar. The plate may alsoinclude a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure. The posterior-most point may be located within thesubstantially flat portion.

In some examples, the sole structure includes a blend portion disposedbetween and connecting the concave portion and the substantially flatportion. The blend portion may include a substantially constantcurvature. The anterior-most point and the posterior-most point may beco-planar at a junction of the blend portion and the substantially flatportion.

The sole structure may include a second cushioning layer disposedbetween the substantially flat portion and the upper. A third cushioninglayer may be disposed between the outsole and the plate. In someexamples, the third cushioning layer is disposed within the heel region.The third cushioning layer may extend from the heel region to theforefoot region.

The sole structure may also include at least one fluid-filled chamberdisposed between the plate and the upper and/or between the outsole andthe plate. The at least one fluid-filled chamber may be disposed withinat least one of the second cushioning layer and the third cushioninglayer.

In some examples, the MTP point is located approximately thirty percent(30%) of the total length of the plate from the anterior-most point. Acenter of the radius of curvature may be located at the MTP point. Theconstant radius of curvature may extend from the anterior-most pointpast the MTP point. The constant radius of curvature may extend from theanterior-most point past the MTP point at least forty percent (40%) ofthe total length of the plate from the anterior-most point.

In some examples, the outsole includes a ground-contacting surface andan inner surface formed on an opposite side of the outsole than theground-contact surface. The inner surface may be directly attached tothe plate. The inner surface may be attached to the plate proximate tothe concave portion.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure provides a sole structure for anarticle of footwear having an upper. The sole structure includes anoutsole, a plate disposed between the outsole and the upper, and a firstcushioning layer disposed between the curved portion and the upper. Theplate includes an anterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region ofthe sole structure, and a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heelregion of the sole structure than the anterior-most point. The platealso includes a curved portion extending between and connecting theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point and including aconstant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point to ametatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure. The MTP pointopposes the MTP joint of a foot during use.

This aspect may include one or more of the following optional features.In some implementations, the anterior-most point and the posterior-mostpoint are co-planar. The plate may include a substantially flat portiondisposed within the heel region of the sole structure, theposterior-most point being located within the substantially flatportion.

In some examples, the sole structure includes a blend portion disposedbetween and connecting the curved portion and the substantially flatportion. The blend portion may include a substantially constantcurvature. The anterior-most point and the posterior-most point may beco-planar at a junction of the blend portion and the substantially flatportion.

The sole structure may include a second cushioning layer disposedbetween the substantially flat portion and the upper. A third cushioninglayer may be disposed between the outsole and the plate. The thirdcushioning layer may be disposed within the heel region. The thirdcushioning layer may extend from the heel region to the forefoot region.

In some examples, the sole structure includes at least one fluid-filledchamber disposed between the plate and the upper and/or between theoutsole and the plate. At least one fluid-filled chamber may be disposedwithin at least one of the second cushioning layer and the thirdcushioning layer.

In some examples, the MTP point is located approximately thirty percent(30%) of the total length of the plate from the anterior-most point. Acenter of the radius of curvature may be located at the MTP point. Theconstant radius of curvature may extend from the anterior-most pointpast the MTP point. The constant radius of curvature may extend from theanterior-most point past the MTP point at least forty percent (40%) ofthe total length of the plate from the anterior-most point.

The outsole may include a ground-contacting surface and an inner surfaceformed on an opposite side of the outsole than the ground-contactsurface. The inner surface may be directly attached to the plate. Theinner surface may be attached to the plate proximate to the curvedportion.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure provides a sole structure for anarticle of footwear having an upper. The sole structure includes anoutsole, a plate disposed between the outsole, and the upper and a firstcushioning layer disposed between the curved portion and the upper. Theplate includes an anterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region ofthe sole structure and a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heelregion of the sole structure than the anterior-most point. The platealso includes a curved portion extending between and connecting theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point and including acircular curvature from the anterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal(MTP) point of the sole structure. The MTP point opposes the MTP jointof a foot during use.

This aspect may include one or more of the following optional features.In some implementations, the anterior-most point and the posterior-mostpoint are co-planar. The plate may include a substantially flat portiondisposed within the heel region of the sole structure. Theposterior-most point may be located within the substantially flatportion. The plate may also include a substantially flat portiondisposed within the heel region of the sole structure. Theposterior-most point may be located within the substantially flatportion.

In some examples, the sole structure includes a blend portion disposedbetween and connecting the curved portion and the substantially flatportion. The blend portion includes a substantially constant curvature.The anterior-most point and the posterior-most point may be co-planar ata junction of the blend portion and the substantially flat portion.

The sole structure may include a second cushioning layer disposedbetween the substantially flat portion and the upper. A third cushioninglayer may be disposed between the outsole and the plate. The thirdcushioning layer may be disposed within the heel region. In someexamples, the third cushioning layer extends from the heel region to theforefoot region.

The sole structure may include at least one fluid-filled chamberdisposed between the plate and the upper and/or between the outsole andthe plate. The at least one fluid-filled chamber may be disposed withinat least one of the second cushioning layer and the third cushioninglayer.

In some examples, the MTP point is located approximately thirty percent(30%) of the total length of the plate from the anterior-most point. Acenter of the circular curvature may be located at the MTP point. Thecircular curvature may extend from the anterior-most point past the MTPpoint. The circular curvature may extend from the anterior-most pointpast the MTP point at least forty percent (40%) of the total length ofthe plate from the anterior-most point.

In some implementations, the outsole includes a ground-contactingsurface and an inner surface formed on an opposite side of the outsolethan the ground-contact surface. The inner surface may be directlyattached to the plate. Additionally or alternatively, the inner surfacemay be attached to the plate proximate to the curved portion. In someexamples, the sole structure further includes a second cushioning layerdisposed on an opposite side of the plate than the first cushioninglayer to form at least a portion of the outsole.

Another aspect of the disclosure includes a plate for an article offootwear having a substrate, a first strand portion attached to thesubstrate and forming a first layer on the substrate, and a secondstrand portion disposed on the first layer and forming a second layer.The first strand portion is attached to the substrate via firststitching that crosses over the first strand portion and penetrates thesubstrate at first attachment locations that are spaced apart from thefirst strand portion. The second strand portion is attached to thesubstrate via second stitching that crosses over the second strandportion, extends through the first strand portion, and penetrates thesubstrate at second attachment locations.

In some configurations configuration, the first strand portion isdisposed between the second attachment locations and the second strandportion. The first strand portion and the second strand portion may beportions of the same, continuous strand. The first strand portion andthe second strand portion may be formed from the same material ordifferent materials.

In some examples, the first strand portion is formed from a first tow offibers. The first tow of fibers may include at least one of carbonfibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. In someexamples, the second strand portion is formed from a second tow offibers. The second tow of fibers may include at least one of carbonfibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

In some implementations, the second tow of fibers includes approximatelythe same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers. In otherimplementations, the second tow of fibers includes a different number offibers than the first tow of fibers. The first strand portion and thesecond strand portion may have different lengths or may haveapproximately the same length.

In some configurations, the first strand portion forms a first void inthe first layer. The substrate may be exposed within the first void.Additionally, the second strand portion may form a second void in thesecond layer. Here, the second void may align with the first void toexpose the substrate at the second layer or the second void may bespaced apart from the first void.

The first strand portion may be applied to the substrate in a firstshape and the second strand portion may be applied to the first layer ina second shape. In one configuration, the first shape is approximatelythe same as the second shape. In another configuration, the first shapeis different than the second shape.

The first stitching and the second stitching may be formed from resin.The first stitching and the second stitching may be formed from the samematerial as the substrate. In some examples, at least one of the firststitching and the second stitching has a higher melting point than thesubstrate. Additionally or alternatively, the first stitching may zigzagacross the first strand portion between the first attachment locations.Similarly, the second stitching may zigzag across the second strandportion between the second attachment locations.

Another aspect of the disclosure includes a plate for an article offootwear having a substrate defining a peripheral edge, a first strandportion attached to the substrate, and a second strand portion disposedon the first layer. The first strand portion includes first segmentsthat each extend between two different locations along the peripheraledge of the substrate to form a first layer on the substrate. The firstsegments are disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to oneanother. The second strand portion includes second segments that eachextend between two different locations along the peripheral edge of thesubstrate to form a second layer on the first layer. The second segmentsbeing convergent with the first segments and disposed adjacent andsubstantially parallel to one another.

At least one of the first strand portion and the second strand portionmay be a continuous strand or the first and second strand portions maybe portions of the same, continuous strand. In some examples, the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are formed from the samematerial, while in other examples, the first strand portion and thesecond strand portion are formed from different materials.

In some configurations, the first strand portion is formed from a firsttow of fibers. In these configurations, the first tow of fibers mayinclude at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

In some configurations, the second strand portion is formed from asecond tow of fibers. In these configurations, the second tow of fibersincludes at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers. The second tow of fibers may include approximately thesame number of fibers as the first tow of fibers, or the second tow offibers may include a different number of fibers than the first tow offibers.

In some implementations, the first strand portion includes first loopedportions disposed proximate to the peripheral edge of the substrate, thefirst looped portions connecting adjacent first segments. Additionally,the second strand portion may include second looped portions disposedproximate to the peripheral edge of the substrate, the second loopedportions connecting adjacent second segments.

The first strand portion may form a first void in the first layer. Here,the substrate may be exposed within the first void. Additionally oralternatively, the second strand portion may form a second void in thesecond layer. The second void may be aligned with the first void toexpose the substrate at the second layer, or the second void is spacedapart from the first void.

In some configurations, the first segments are applied to the substrateat a first angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the substrate andthe second segments are applied to the first layer at a second anglerelative to the longitudinal axis of the substrate that is differentthan the first angle. In these configurations, a third strand portionmay be disposed on the second layer and include third segments that eachextend between two different locations along the peripheral edge of thesubstrate to form a third layer on the second layer. The third segmentsmay be convergent with the first segments and the second segments anddisposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another. In someexamples, the third segments are applied to the second layer at a thirdangle relative to the longitudinal axis of the substrate that isdifferent than the first angle and the second angle.

In some implementations, the first strand portion is attached to thesubstrate via first stitching and the second strand portion is attachedto the substrate via second stitching. At least one of the firststitching and the second stitching may be formed from the same materialas the substrate. At least one of the first stitching and the secondstitching has a higher melting point than the substrate in some example.At least one of the first stitching and the second stitching may beformed from resin. Moreover, the first stitching may zigzag across thefirst strand portion and penetrate the substrate at first attachmentlocations and the second stitching may additionally or alternativelyzigzag across the second strand portion and penetrate the substrate atsecond attachment locations. The first attachment locations may bespaced apart from the first strand portion. The first strand portionsmay be disposed between the second layer and the second attachmentlocations. The second stitching may extend through the first strandportion. In some configurations, the first layer and the second layerare anisotropic.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure provides a plate for an article offootwear. The plate includes a substrate and a first strand portionattached to the substrate and forming a first layer on the substrate.The first strand portion forms a first void in the first layer to exposethe substrate within the first void.

In some implementations, the plate includes a second strand portiondisposed on the first layer and forming a second layer. The first strandportion and the second strand portion may be portions of the same,continuous strand. The first strand portion and the second strandportion may be formed from the same material. In some examples, thefirst strand portion and the second strand portion are formed fromdifferent materials. The first strand portion and the second strandportion may have different lengths. In some examples, the first strandportion and the second strand portion have approximately the samelength.

In some configurations, the second strand portion forms a second void inthe second layer. The second void may be aligned with the first void toexpose the substrate at the second layer. The second void may be spacedapart from the first void. In some implementations, the first strand isapplied to the substrate in a first shape and the second strand portionis applied to the first layer in a second shape. The first shape may beapproximately the same as the second shape. The first shape may bedifferent than the second shape.

In some examples, the first strand portion is attached to the substrateby stitching. The stitching may be formed from resin. The stitching mayalso be formed from the same material as the substrate. The stitchingmay have a higher melting point than the substrate. In someconfigurations, the stitching zigzags across the first strand portionbetween attachment locations located on the substrate.

The first strand portion may be formed from a first tow of fibers. Thefirst tow of fibers may include at least one of carbon fibers, boronfibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. The second strand portionmay be disposed on the first layer and form a second layer, the secondstrand portion being formed from a second tow of fibers. The second towof fibers may include at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glassfibers, and polymeric fibers. The second tow of fibers may includeapproximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers. Thesecond tow of fibers may include a different number of fibers than thefirst tow of fibers.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure provides a plate for an article offootwear. The plate includes a substrate defining a first region and asecond region, a first strand portion, and a second strand portion. Thefirst strand portion is attached to and opposing the substrate in one ofthe first region and the second region and including a first patternproviding the one of the first region and the second region with firstperformance characteristics. The second strand portion is attached toand opposing the substrate in the other of the first region and thesecond region and including a second pattern different than the firstpattern. The second strand portion also provides the other of the firstregion and the second region with second performance characteristicsdifferent than the first performance characteristics.

The first strand portion may form a first edge to define a shape of theone of the first region and the second region. The second strand portionmay form a second edge to define a shape of the other of the firstregion and the second region. The first edge may be spaced apart andseparated from the second edge. The first edge may abut the second edge.In some configurations, the first strand portion and the second strandportion may be portions of the same, continuous strand. The first strandportion and the second strand portion may be formed from the samematerial. The first strand portion and the second strand portion may beformed from different materials.

The first strand portion may be formed from a first tow of fibers. Thefirst tow of fibers may include at least one of carbon fibers, boronfibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. The second strand portionmay be formed from a second row of fibers. The second tow of fibers mayinclude at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers. The second tow of fibers may include approximately thesame numbers of fibers as the first tow of fibers. The second tow offibers may include a different number of fibers than the first tow offibers.

In some examples, the first strand portion and the second strand portionhave different lengths. The first strand portion and the second strandportion may have approximately the same length. At least one of thefirst strand portion and the second strand portion may form a void in atleast one of the first region and the second region. The substrate maybe exposed within the void. The first strand portion and the secondstrand portion may have different thicknesses. In some configurations,the first strand portion and the second strand portion haveapproximately the same thickness. The first region and the second regionmay have different thicknesses. The first region and the second regionmay have approximately the same thickness.

In some implementations, one of the first region and the second regionis located in one of a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a heelportion of the article of footwear. The other of the first region andthe second region may be located in another of the forefoot portion, themidfoot portion, and the heel portion of the article of footwear. Thefirst strand portion may be attached to the substrate via firststitching and the second strand portion may be attached to the substratevia second stitching. At least one of the first stitching and the secondstitching may be formed from resin. At least one of the first stitchingand the second stitching may be formed from the same material as thesubstrate. In some examples, at least one of the first stitching and thesecond stitching has a higher melting point than the substrate. Thefirst stitching may zigzag across the first strand portion and penetratethe substrate at the first attachment locations that are spaced apartfrom the first strand portion. The second stitching may zigzag acrossthe second strand portion and penetrate the substrate at the secondattachment locations that are spaced apart from the second strandportion.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure provides a plate for an article offootwear. The plate includes a substrate and a first strand portion. Thesubstrate has a forefoot region and a heel region. The first strandportion is attached to the substrate and includes a plurality ofsegments that extend between a first end disposed in the forefoot regionand a second end disposed in the heel region. The plurality of segmentscrossing one another in a midfoot region are disposed between theforefoot region and the heel region.

In some implementations, the first strand portion is formed from acontinuous strand. The first strand portion may include first loopedportions joining respective first ends of the plurality of segments andsecond looped portions joining respective second ends of the pluralityof segments. The plurality of segments, the first looped portions, andthe second looped portions cooperate to provide the first strand portionwith a continuous construction. The first strand portion may extend ontoan upper of the article of footwear.

In some configurations, the plate includes tensile strands extendingbetween and connecting the first strand portion to an upper of thearticle of footwear. The tensile strands may be attached to the firststrand portion along at least one of the plurality of segments betweenthe first end and the second end of the at least one of the plurality ofsegments. The plate may further include a lace operable to move theupper between a tightened state and a relaxed state. The tensile strandsmay extend between and join the lace and the at least one of theplurality of segments.

The substrate may include cleat members extending from a surfacethereof. In some examples, the first strand portion is attached to thesurface of the substrate and extends around a portion of the cleatmembers. The first strand portion may be attached to the surface of thesubstrate and surround at least one of the cleat members. The firststrand portion may further be attached to the surface of the substrateand at least one of the plurality of segments surrounding at least oneof the cleat members.

In some examples, the plurality of segments are woven together at themidfoot region. The first strand portion may be formed from a first towof fibers. The first tow of fibers may include at least one of carbonfibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. The firststrand portion may form at least one void between at least two of thesegments. The substrate may be exposed within the at least one void. Insome configurations, a first bundle of the plurality of segments and asecond bundle of the plurality of segments cooperate to define the atleast one void. The at least one void may be disposed between the firstbundle and the second bundle.

Another aspect of the disclosure includes a method of forming a platefor an article of footwear. The method includes stitching a first strandportion to a substrate to form a first layer on the substrate, andstitching a second strand portion on the first layer to form a secondlayer. The first strand portion includes applying first stitching thatcrosses over the first strand portion and penetrates the substrate atfirst attachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strandportion. The second strand portion includes applying second stitchingthat crosses over the second strand portion, extends through the firststrand portion, and penetrates the substrate at second attachmentlocations.

In some examples, stitching the second strand portion on the first layerincludes positioning the first strand portion between the secondattachment locations and the second strand portion. The method alsoincludes forming the first strand portion and the second strand portionof the same, continuous strand. The method may further include formingthe first strand portion and the second strand portion from the samematerial. In some implementations, the method includes forming the firststrand portion and the second strand portion from different materials.

The first strand portion may be formed from a first tow of fibers.Forming the first strand portion from the first tow of fibers mayinclude forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbonfibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. The secondstrand portion may be formed from a second tow of fibers. Forming thesecond strand portion from the second tow of fibers may include formingthe second strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, boronfibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. Forming the second strandfrom the second tow of fibers may include providing approximately thesame number of fibers as the first tow of fibers. Forming the secondstrand from the second tow of fibers may include providing a differentnumber of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

In some examples, the method includes the first strand portion and thesecond strand portion being formed with different lengths. The firststrand portion and the second strand portion may be approximately thesame length. Stitching the first strand portion to the substrate mayinclude forming a first void in the first layer. The method may includeexposing the substrate within the first void. Stitching the secondstrand portion on the first layer may include forming a second void inthe second layer. The second void may include aligning the second voidwith the first void to expose the substrate at the second layer. Formingthe second void may include spacing apart the second void from the firstvoid.

In some configurations, stitching the first strand portion to thesubstrate includes applying the first strand portion to the substrate ina first shape. Stitching the second strand portion on the first layermay include applying the second strand portion to the first layer in asecond shape. Applying the first strand portion in the first shape andapplying the second strand portion in the second shape may includeapplying the first strand portion and the second strand portion inapproximately the same shape. In some examples, applying the firststrand portion in the first shape and applying the second strand portionin the second shape includes applying the first strand portion and thesecond strand portion in different shapes. The method may include atleast one of applying the first stitching and applying the secondstitching may include applying stitching formed from resin. The methodmay further include at least one of applying the first stitching andapplying the second stitching may include applying stitching that isformed from the same material as the substrate.

In some implementations, the method includes at least one of applyingthe first stitching and applying the second stitching may includeapplying stitching that has a higher melting point than the substrate.Applying the first stitching may include zigzagging the first stitchingacross the first strand portion between first attachment locations.Applying the second stitching may include zigzagging the secondstitching across the second strand portion between the second attachmentlocations. In some examples, the method includes applying at least oneof heat and pressure to the first strand portion and the second strandportion to bind the first strand portion to both the substrate and thesecond strand portion. Applying at least one of heat and pressure mayinclude forming the substrate, the first strand portion, and the secondstrand portion into a desired shape.

Another aspect of the disclosure includes a method of forming a platefor an article of footwear. The method includes attaching a first strandportion to a substrate and positioning a second strand portion on thefirst layer. Attaching the first strand portion includes positioningfirst segments of the first strand portion on the substrate with eachfirst segment extending between two different locations along aperipheral edge of the substrate to form a first layer on the substrate.The first segment is disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to oneanother. Positioning a second strand portion includes positioning secondsegments of the second strand portion on the first layer with eachsecond segment extending between two different locations along theperipheral edge of the substrate to form a second layer on the firstlayer. The second segments is convergent with the first segments anddisposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another.

The method may include at least one of attaching the first strandportion to the substrate and positioning the second strand portion onthe first layer may include positioning a continuous strand. Attachingthe first strand portion to the substrate and positioning the secondstrand portion on the first layer may include positioning a single,continuous strand. The method may include forming the first strandportion and the second strand portion from the same material. In someexamples, the method may include forming the first strand portion andthe second strand portion from different materials.

In some implementations, the method includes forming the first strandportion from a first tow of fibers. The first strand portion from thefirst tow of fibers may include forming the first strand portion from atleast one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymericfibers. The method may also include forming the second strand portionfrom a second tow of fibers. The second strand portion from the secondtow of fibers may include forming the second strand portion from atleast one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymericfibers. Forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers mayinclude providing approximately the same number of fibers as the firsttow of fibers. Forming the second strand from the second tow of fibersmay include providing a different number of fibers than the first tow offibers.

In some examples, the method includes providing the first strand portionwith first looped portions disposed proximate to the peripheral edge ofthe substrate, the first looped portions connecting adjacent firstsegments. The method may also include providing the second strandportion with second looped portions disposed proximate to the peripheraledge of the substrate, the second looped portions connecting adjacentsecond segments. Attaching the first strand portion to the substrate mayinclude forming a first void in the first layer. The method may alsoinclude exposing the substrate within the first void.

In some examples, the method includes positioning the second strandportion on the first layer and includes forming a second void in thesecond layer. Forming the second void may include aligning the secondvoid with the first void to expose the substrate at the second layer.Forming the second void may include spacing apart the second void fromthe first void. Positioning the first segments of the first strandportion on the substrate may include applying the first segments at afirst angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the substrate.Positioning the second segments of the second strand portion on thefirst layer may include applying the second segments at a second anglerelative to the longitudinal axis of the substrate that is differentthan the first angle. In some examples, positioning a third strandportion on the second layer includes positioning third segments of thethird strand portion on the second layer with each third segmentextending between two different locations along the peripheral edge ofthe substrate to form a third layer on the second layer. The thirdsegments may be convergent with the first segments and the secondsegments and disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to oneanother. Positioning the third segments on the second layer may includeapplying the third segments at a third angle relative to thelongitudinal axis of the substrate that is different than the firstangle and the second angle.

Attaching the first strand portion to the substrate may include applyingfirst stitching and positioning the second strand portion on the firstlayer may include applying second stitching. At least one of applyingthe first stitching and applying the second stitching may includeapplying stitching that is formed from the same material as thesubstrate. At least one of applying the first stitching and applying thesecond stitching may include applying stitching that has a highermelting point than the substrate. In some examples, applying the firststitching includes zigzagging the first stitching across the firststrand portion between first attachment locations. Applying the secondstitching may include zigzagging the second stitching across the secondstrand portion between second attachment locations. Applying the secondstitching may include extending the second stitching through the firststrand portion. The method may include applying at least one of heat andpressure to the first strand portion and the second strand portion tobind the first strand portion to both the substrate and the secondstrand portion. Applying at least one of heat and pressure may includeforming the substrate, the first strand portion, and the second strandportion into a desired shape.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure includes a method of forming aplate for an article of footwear. The method includes attaching a firststrand portion to a substrate to form a first layer on the substrate.The first strand portion may form a first void in the first layer toexpose the substrate within the first void.

The method may include positioning a second strand portion on the firstlayer to form a second layer. The method may also include forming thefirst strand portion and the second strand portion of the same,continuous strand. In some examples, the method includes forming thefirst strand portion and the second strand portion from the samematerial. The method may also include forming the first strand portionand the second strand portion from different materials. The method mayfurther include providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with different lengths. The first strand portion and the secondstrand portion may be formed with approximately the same length.

In some configurations, positioning the second strand portion includesforming a second void in the second layer. The method may also includealigning the second void with the first void to expose the substrate atthe second layer. The method may further include spacing the second voidapart from the first void.

Attaching the first strand portion may include applying the first strandportion to the substrate in a first shape and positioning the secondstrand portion may include applying the second strand portion on thefirst layer in a second shape. Applying the first strand portion in thefirst shape and applying the second strand portion in the second shapemay include applying the first strand portion and the second strandportion in approximately the same shape. Applying the first strandportion in the first shape and applying the second strand portion in thesecond shape may include applying the first strand portion and thesecond strand portion in different shapes. Attaching the first strandportion to the substrate may include applying stitching. Applyingstitching may also include applying stitching formed from resin.Applying stitching may further include applying stitching formed fromthe same material as the substrate. In some examples, applying stitchingincludes applying stitching having a higher melting point than thesubstrate. Applying stitching may further include zigzagging thestitching across the first strand portion between first attachmentlocations located on the substrate.

In some implementations, the method includes forming the first strandportion from a first tow of fibers. Forming the first strand portionfrom the first tow of fibers may also include forming the first strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers. The method may also include positioning a secondstrand portion on the first layer to form a second layer, the secondstrand portion being formed from a second tow of fibers. Forming thesecond strand portion from the second tow of fibers may include formingthe second strand portion from at least one of carbon fibers, boronfibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. Forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers may include providingapproximately the same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.Forming the second strand portion from the second tow of fibers mayfurther include providing a different number of fibers than the firsttow of fibers.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of forming anarticle of footwear. The method includes defining a first region and asecond region on a substrate, attaching a first strand portion to thesubstrate in one of the first region and the second region, andattaching a second strand portion to the substrate in the other of thefirst region and the second region. Attaching a first strand portion tothe substrate includes forming the first strand into a first patternthat opposes the substrate and provides the one of the first region andthe second region with first performance characteristics. Attaching asecond strand portion to the substrate includes forming the secondstrand portion into a second pattern different than the first patternthat opposes the substrate and provides the other of the first regionand the second region with second performance characteristics differentthan the first performance characteristics.

Forming the first strand portion may include forming a first edge todefine a shape of the one of the first region and the second region.Forming the second strand portion may include forming a second edge todefine a shape of the other of the first region and the second region.In some examples, the method includes spacing the first edge apart fromthe second edge. The method may further include abutting the first edgeagainst the second edge.

In some examples, the method includes forming the first strand portionand the second strand portion of the same, continuous strand. The methodmay also include forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion from the same material. The first strand portion and the secondstrand portion may be formed from different materials. The method mayfurther include forming the first strand portion from a first tow offibers. Forming the first strand portion from the first tow of fibersmay include forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbonfibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. In someexamples, the method includes forming the second strand portion from asecond tow of fibers. Forming the second strand portion from the secondtow of fibers may include forming the second strand portion from atleast one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymericfibers.

Forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers may includeproviding approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow offibers. Forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers mayinclude providing a different number of fibers than the first tow offibers. In some examples, the method includes providing the first strandportion and the second strand portion with different lengths. The methodmay include providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with approximately the same length. The method may also includeat least one of attaching the first strand portion to the substrate andattaching the second strand portion to the substrate may include forminga void in at least one of the first region and the second region. Insome implementations, the method includes exposing the substrate withinthe void. The first strand portion and the second strand portion may beprovided with different thicknesses. The method may further includeproviding the first strand portion and the second strand portion withapproximately the same thickness. Additionally or alternatively, thefirst region and the second region may be provided with differentthicknesses. In some examples, the method includes providing the firstregion and the second region with approximately the same thickness.

In some configurations, the method includes locating one of the firstregion and the second region in one of a forefoot portion, a midfootportion, and a heel portion of the article of footwear. The method mayalso include locating the other of the first region and the secondregion in another of the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion, and theheel portion of the article of footwear. In some examples, the methodincludes attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via firststitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate viasecond stitching. Attaching the first strand portion to the substratevia first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to thesubstrate via second stitching may include using stitching formed fromresin. Attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via firststitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate viasecond stitching may include using stitching formed from the samematerial as the substrate. Attaching the first strand portion to thesubstrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion tothe substrate via second stitching may include using stitching having ahigher melting point than the substrate.

In some examples, the method includes zigzagging the first stitchingacross the first strand portion and penetrating the substrate at firstattachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strandportion. The method may also include zigzagging the second stitchingacross the second strand portion and penetrating the substrate at secondattachment locations that are spaced apart from the second strandportion. The method may further include zigzagging the second stitchingacross the second strand portion and penetrating the substrate at secondattachment locations that are spaced apart from the second strandportion.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of forming anarticle of footwear. The method includes attaching a first strandportion to a flexible substrate to form a first layer on the substrate,positioning the substrate on a first mold surface to change a shape ofthe substrate, applying at least one of heat and pressure to the firststrand portion and the substrate to conform the substrate to the shapeof the first mold surface, and incorporating the substrate into anarticle of footwear.

In some examples, the method includes attaching a second strand portionto the substrate to form a second layer on the substrate. Attaching thesecond strand portion to the substrate may include attaching the secondstrand portion adjacent to the first strand portion. Attaching thesecond strand portion to the substrate may also include overlapping atleast a portion of the second strand portion on the first strandportion.

In some implementations, the method includes forming the first strandportion and the second strand portion of the same, continuous strand.The first strand portion and the second strand portion may be formedfrom the same material. Additionally or alternatively, the first strandportion and the second strand portion may be formed from differentmaterials.

The method may also include forming the first strand portion from afirst tow of fibers. Forming the first strand portion from the first towof fibers may include forming the first strand portion from at least oneof carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. Themethod may further include forming the second strand portion from asecond tow of fibers. Forming the second strand portion from the secondtow of fibers may include forming the second strand portion from atleast one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymericfibers. Forming the second strand from the second tow of fibers may alsoinclude providing approximately the same number of fibers as the firsttow of fibers. In some examples, forming the second strand from thesecond tow of fibers includes providing a different number of fibersthan the first tow of fibers.

In some configurations, the method includes providing the first strandportion and the second strand portion with different lengths. The methodmay also include providing the first strand portion and the secondstrand portion with approximately the same length. At least one ofattaching the first strand portion to the substrate and attaching thesecond strand portion to the substrate may include forming a void in atleast one of the first layer and the second layer. In some examples, themethod includes exposing the substrate within the void. The first strandportion and the second strand portion may be provided with differentthicknesses. Additionally or alternatively, the first strand portion andthe second strand portion may be provided with approximately the samethickness. The method may also include providing the first layer and thesecond layer with different thicknesses. In some examples, the methodincludes providing the first layer and the second layer withapproximately the same thickness.

Conforming the substrate to the shape of the first mold surface mayinclude providing the substrate with a forefoot portion, a midfootportion, and a heel portion. The method may include attaching the firststrand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching thesecond strand portion to the substrate via second stitching. Attachingthe first strand portion to the substrate via first stitching andattaching the second strand portion to the substrate via secondstitching may include using stitching formed from resin. Attaching thefirst strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attachingthe second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching may alsoinclude using stitching formed from the same material as the substrate.In some examples, attaching the first strand portion to the substratevia first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to thesubstrate via second stitching includes using stitching having a highermelting point than the substrate. Applying at least one of heat andpressure may include activating a resin material incorporated into thefirst strand portion.

In some configurations, the method includes infusing the first strandportion with a liquid material. Applying at least one of heat andpressure may include subjecting the substrate and the first strandportion to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding tocure the liquid material. Curing the liquid material may include curinga thermoset material. Curing a thermoset material may include curing atleast one of an epoxy, a polyurethane, a polymerizable composition, anda pre-polymer. In some examples, infusing the first strand portion witha liquid material includes adding a polymer to the liquid material toincrease the ductility of the liquid material once cured. Adding apolymer to the liquid material may include adding at least one of rubberand a block copolymer.

In some examples, the method includes forming the substrate from athermoplastic film. The method may include attaching the first strandportion to the thermoplastic film via stitching. Attaching the firststrand portion to the thermoplastic film via stitching may include usingstitching formed from a thermoplastic material. Applying at least one ofheat and pressure to the first strand portion and the substrate mayinclude thermoforming the thermoplastic film and the thermoplasticstitching to join the first strand portion to the substrate. Applying atleast one of heat and pressure may include subjecting the substrate andthe first strand portion to at least one of vacuum molding andcompression molding.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of forming anarticle of footwear. The method includes attaching a first strandportion to a first substrate to form a first layer on the firstsubstrate and attaching a second strand portion to a second substrate toform a second layer on the second substrate. The method also includespositioning the second substrate on the first substrate to form asubstrate stack, positioning the substrate stack on a first moldsurface, applying at least one of heat and pressure to the substratestack to conform the substrate stack to the shape of the first moldsurface, and incorporating the substrate stack into an article offootwear.

In some examples, applying at least one of heat and pressure includesactivating a resin material incorporated into the first strand portionand the second strand portion. The method may include infusing the firststrand portion and the second strand portion with a liquid material.Applying at least one of heat and pressure may include subjecting thesubstrate stack to at least one of vacuum molding and compressionmolding to cure the liquid material. Curing the liquid material mayinclude curing a thermoset material. Curing a thermoset material mayinclude curing at least one of an epoxy, a polyurethane, a polymerizablecomposition, and a pre-polymer. In some examples, infusing the firststrand portion and the second strand portion with a liquid materialincludes adding a polymer to the liquid material to increase theductility of the liquid material once cured. Adding a polymer to theliquid material may include adding at least one of rubber and a blockcopolymer.

In some configurations, the method includes forming at least one of thefirst substrate and the second substrate from a thermoplastic film. Themethod may include attaching the first strand portion to the firstsubstrate via first stitching and attaching the second strand portion tothe second substrate via second stitching. Attaching the first strandportion to the first substrate via first stitching and attaching thesecond strand portion to the second substrate via second stitching mayinclude using stitching formed from a thermoplastic material. Applyingat least one of heat and pressure to the substrate stack may includethermoforming the thermoplastic film of the first substrate and thefirst stitching to join the first strand portion and the first substrateand thermoforming the thermoplastic film of the second substrate and thesecond stitching to join the second strand portion and the secondsubstrate. In some examples, the method includes attaching the firststrand portion to the first substrate via first stitching and attachingthe second strand portion to the second substrate via second stitching.Attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via first stitchingand attaching the second strand portion to the substrate via secondstitching may include using stitching formed from resin. Attaching thefirst strand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attachingthe second strand portion to the substrate via second stitching mayfurther include using stitching formed from the same material as thesubstrate.

In some examples, attaching the first strand portion to the substratevia first stitching and attaching the second strand portion to thesubstrate via second stitching includes using stitching having a highermelting point than the substrate. Applying at least one of heat andpressure may include activating a resin material incorporated into atleast one of the first strand portion and the second stand portion.Applying at least one of heat and pressure may include subjecting thesubstrate stack to at least one of vacuum molding and compressionmolding. The method may include forming the first strand portion and thesecond strand portion from the same material. Additionally oralternatively, the method may include forming the first strand portionand the second strand portion from different materials.

In some examples, the method includes forming the first strand portionfrom a first tow of fibers. Forming the first strand portion from thefirst tow of fibers may include forming the first strand portion from atleast one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymericfibers. The method may include forming the second strand portion from asecond tow of fibers. Forming the second strand portion from the secondtow of fibers may include forming the second strand portion from atleast one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymericfibers. In some examples, forming the second strand from the second towof fibers includes providing approximately the same number of fibers asthe first tow of fibers. The second strand from the second tow of fibersmay include providing a different number of fibers than the first tow offibers.

In some configurations, the method includes providing the first strandportion and the second strand portion with different lengths.Additionally or alternatively, the method may include providing thefirst strand portion and the second strand portion with approximatelythe same length. At least one of attaching the first strand portion tothe first substrate and attaching the second strand portion to thesecond substrate may include forming a void in at least one of the firstlayer and the second layer. The method may include exposing thesubstrate within the void. The method may also include providing thefirst strand portion and the second strand portion with differentthicknesses. Additionally or alternatively, the method may includeproviding the first strand portion and the second strand portion withapproximately the same thickness. In some examples, the first layer andthe second layer are provided with different thicknesses. The method mayfurther include providing the first layer and the second layer withapproximately the same thickness. Conforming the substrate stack to theshape of the first mold surface may include providing the substratestack with a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a heel portion.

Yet another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of forming aplate for an article of footwear. The method includes providing asubstrate having a forefoot region and a heel region, attaching a firststrand portion to the substrate having a plurality of segments thatextend between a first end disposed in the forefoot region and a secondend disposed in the heel region, and crossing the plurality of segmentsin a midfoot region disposed between the forefoot region and the heelregion.

In some implementations, attaching the first strand portion to thesubstrate includes attaching a continuous strand. Attaching the firststrand portion to the substrate may include joining respective firstends of the plurality of segments via first looped portions and joiningrespective second ends of the plurality of segments via second loopedportions to provide the first strand portion with a continuousconstruction. The method may also include extending the first strandportion onto an upper of the article of footwear.

In some examples, the method includes extending tensile strands betweenthe first strand portion and an upper of the article of footwear.Extending tensile strands between the first strand portion and the uppermay include connecting the first strand portion and the upper via thetensile strands. The method may include attaching the tensile strands tothe first strand portion along at least one of the plurality of segmentsbetween the first end and the second end of the at least one of theplurality of segments. The method may further include extending thetensile strands between a lace operable to move the upper between atightened state and a relaxed state and the at least one of theplurality of segments. Extending the tensile strands between the laceand the at least one of the plurality of segments may include connectingthe tensile strands to the lace and the at least one of the plurality ofsegments.

In some configurations, the method includes providing the substrate withcleat members that extend from a surface thereof. The method may includeattaching the first strand portion to the surface of the substrate andextending the first strand portion around a portion of the cleatmembers. The method may further include attaching the first strandportion to the surface of the substrate and surrounding at least one ofthe cleat members with the first strand portion. The method may alsoinclude attaching the first strand portion to the surface of thesubstrate and surrounding at least one of the cleat members with atleast one of the plurality of segments. In some examples, the methodincludes weaving the plurality of segments together at the midfootregion.

The method may include forming the first strand portion from a first towof fibers. Forming the first strand portion from the first tow of fibersmay include forming the first strand portion from at least one of carbonfibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. Attaching thefirst strand portion to the substrate may include forming at least onevoid between at least two of the segments. The method may also includeexposing the substrate within the at least one void. In some examples,the method includes defining the at least one void between a firstbundle of the plurality of segments and a second bundle of the pluralityof segments. The method may further include exposing the substratewithin the at least one void.

The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure are setforth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Otheraspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the descriptionand drawings, and from the claims.

During running movements, an application point of footwear providing thepush-off force from the ground surface is located in a forefoot portionof the footwear. The application point of the footwear opposes ametatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the foot. A distance between an anklejoint of the athlete and a line of action of the application pointproviding the push-off force defines a lever arm length about the ankle.A mechanical demand for the ankle plantarflexors (e.g., calf musclestendon unit) can be based on a push-off moment at the ankle determinedby multiplying the length of the lever arm by a magnitude of thepush-off force controlled by the athlete. Stiff and flat footwear platesgenerally increase the mechanical demand at the ankle due to stiff, flatplate causing the application point with the ground surface to shiftanteriorly. As a result, the lever arm distance and the push-off momentincreases at the ankle joint. Implementations herein are directed towardshorting the length of the lever arm from the ankle joint to reduce thepush-off moment at the ankle by providing a stiff footwear plate thatincludes a curved portion opposing the MTP joint.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, an article of footwear 10 is provided andincludes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200 attached to the upper100. The article of footwear 10 may be divided into one or moreportions. The portions may include a forefoot portion 12, a mid-footportion 14, and a heel portion 16. The forefoot portion 12 maycorrespond with toes and joints connecting metatarsal bones with phalanxbones of a foot during use of the footwear 10. The forefoot portion 12may correspond with the MTP joint of the foot. The mid-foot portion 14may correspond with an arch area of the foot, and the heel portion 16may correspond with rear portions of the foot, including a calcaneusbone, during use of the article of footwear 10. The footwear 10 mayinclude lateral and medial sides 18, 20, respectively, correspondingwith opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extending through theportions 12, 14, 16.

The upper 100 includes interior surfaces that define an interior void102 that receives and secures a foot for support on the sole structure200, during use of the article of footwear 10. An ankle opening 104 inthe heel portion 16 may provide access to the interior void 102. Forexample, the ankle opening 104 may receive a foot to secure the footwithin the void 102 and facilitate entry and removal of the foot to andfrom the interior void 102. In some examples, one or more fasteners 106extend along the upper 100 to adjust a fit of the interior void 102around the foot while concurrently accommodating entry and removal ofthe foot therefrom. The upper 100 may include apertures such as eyeletsand/or other engagement features such as fabric or mesh loops thatreceive the fasteners 106. The fasteners 106 may include laces, straps,cords, hook-and-loop, or any other suitable type of fastener.

The upper 100 may include a tongue portion 110 that extends between theinterior void 102 and the fasteners 106. The upper 100 may be formedfrom one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bondedtogether to form the interior void 102. Suitable materials of the uppermay include, but are not limited, textiles, foam, leather, and syntheticleather. The materials may be selected and located to impart propertiesof durability, air-permeability, wear-resistance, flexibility, andcomfort.

In some implementations, the sole structure 200 includes an outsole 210,a cushioning member 250, and a midsole 220 arranged in a layeredconfiguration. The sole structure 200 (e.g., the outsole 210, thecushioning member 250, and the midsole 220) defines a longitudinal axisL. For example, the outsole 210 engages with a ground surface during useof the article of footwear 10, the midsole 220 attaches to the upper100, and the cushioning member 250 is disposed therebetween to separatethe midsole 220 from the outsole 210. The midsole 220 may correspond toa conventional strobel. Accordingly, the term “strobel” and “midsole”may be used interchangeably when referring to element 220 unlessotherwise indicated. For example, the cushioning member 250 defines abottom surface 252 opposing the outsole 210 and a top surface 254disposed on an opposite side of the cushioning member 250 than thebottom surface 252 and opposing the midsole 220. The top surface 254 maybe contoured to conform to the profile of the bottom surface (e.g.,plantar) of the foot within the interior void 102. In some examples, thesole structure 200 may also incorporate additional layers such as aninsole 260 (FIGS. 2 and 3) or sockliner, which may reside within theinterior void 102 of the upper 100 to receive a plantar surface of thefoot to enhance the comfort of the footwear 10. In some examples, asidewall 230 surrounds at least a portion of a perimeter of thecushioning member 250 and separates the cushioning member 250 and themidsole/strobel 220 to define a cavity 240 therebetween. For instance,the sidewall 230 and the top surface 254 of the cushioning member 250may cooperate to retain and support the foot upon the cushioning member250 when the interior void 102 receives the foot therein. For instance,the sidewall 230 may define a rim around at least a portion of theperimeter of the contoured top surface 254 of the cushioning member 250to cradle the foot during use of the footwear 10 when performing walkingor running movements. The rim may extend around the perimeter of themidsole 220 when the cushioning member 250 attaches to the midsole 220.

In some configurations, a footwear plate 300 is disposed upon the topsurface 254 of the cushioning member 250 and underneath the midsole 220to reduce energy loss at the MTP joint while enhancing rolling of thefoot as the footwear 10 rolls for engagement with a ground surfaceduring a running motion. The footwear plate 300 may define a lengthextending through at least a portion of the length of the sole structure200. In some examples, the length of the plate 300 extends through theforefoot, mid-foot, and heel portions 12, 14, 16 of the sole structure200. In other examples, the length of the plate 300 extends through theforefoot portion 12 and the mid-foot portion 14, and is absent from theheel portion 16.

In some examples, the footwear plate 300 includes a uniform localstiffness (e.g., tensile strength or flexural strength) throughout theentire surface area of the plate 300. The stiffness of the plate may beanisotropic where the stiffness in one direction across the plate isdifferent from the stiffness in another direction. For instance, theplate 300 may be formed from at least two layers of fibers anisotropicto one another to impart gradient stiffness and gradient load pathsacross the plate 300. In one configuration, the plate 300 provides agreater longitudinal stiffness (e.g., in a direction along thelongitudinal axis L) than a transverse stiffness (e.g., in a directiontransverse to the longitudinal axis L). In one example, the transversestiffness is at least ten percent (10%) lower than the longitudinalstiffness. In another example, the transverse stiffness is from aboutten percent (10%) to about twenty percent (20%) of the longitudinalstiffness. In some configurations, the plate 300 is formed from one ormore layers of tows of fibers and/or layers of fibers including at leastone of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.In a particular configuration, the fibers include carbon fibers, orglass fibers, or a combination of both carbon fibers and glass fibers.The tows of fibers may be affixed to a substrate. The tows of fibers maybe affixed by stitching or using an adhesive. Additionally oralternatively, the tows of fibers and/or layers of fibers may beconsolidated with a thermoset polymer and/or a thermoplastic polymer.Accordingly, the plate 300 may have a tensile strength or flexuralstrength in a transverse direction substantially perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis L. The stiffness of the plate 300 may be selected fora particular wearer based on the wearer's tendon flexibility, calfmuscle strength, and/or MTP joint flexibility. Moreover, the stiffnessof the plate 300 may also be tailored based upon a running motion of theathlete. In other configurations, the plate 300 is formed from one ormore layers/plies of unidirectional tape. In some examples, each layerin the stack includes a different orientation than the layer disposedunderneath. The plate may be formed from unidirectional tape includingat least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymericfibers. In some examples, the one or more materials forming the plate300 include a Young's modulus of at least 70 gigapascals (GPa).

In some implementations, the plate 300 includes a substantially uniformthickness. In some examples, the thickness of the plate 300 ranges fromabout 0.6 millimeter (mm) to about 3.0 mm. In one example, the thicknessof the plate is substantially equal to one 1.0 mm. In otherimplementations, the thickness of the plate 300 is non-uniform such thatthe plate 300 may define a greater thickness in the mid-foot portion 14of the sole structure 200 than the thicknesses in the forefoot portion12 and the heel portion 16.

The outsole 210 may include a ground-engaging surface 212 and anopposite inner surface 214. The outsole 210 may attach to the upper 100.In some examples, the bottom surface 252 of the cushioning member 250affixes to the inner surface 214 of the outsole and the sidewall 230extends from the perimeter of the cushioning member 250 and attaches tothe midsole 220 or the upper 100. The example of FIG. 1 shows theoutsole 210 attaching to the upper 100 proximate to a tip of theforefoot portion 12. The outsole 210 generally providesabrasion-resistance and traction with the ground surface during use ofthe article of footwear 10. The outsole 210 may be formed from one ormore materials that impart durability and wear-resistance, as well asenhance traction with the ground surface. For example, rubber may format least a portion of the outsole 210.

The midsole/strobel 220 may include a bottom surface 222 and a footbed224 disposed on an opposite side of the midsole 220 than the bottomsurface 222. Stitching 226 or adhesives may secure the midsole 220 tothe upper 100. The footbed 224 may be contoured to conform to a profileof the bottom surface (e.g., plantar) of the foot. The bottom surface222 may oppose the inner surface 214 of the outsole 210 to define aspace therebetween for receiving the cushioning member 250.

FIG. 2 provides an exploded view of the article of footwear 10 showingthe outsole 210, the cushioning member 250 disposed upon the innersurface 214 of the outsole 210, and the substantially rigid footwearplate 300 disposed between the top surface 254 of the cushioning member250 and the bottom surface 222 of the midsole 220. The cushioning member250 may be sized and shaped to occupy at least a portion of empty spacebetween the outsole 210 and the midsole 220. Here, the cavity 240between the cushioning member 250 and the bottom surface 222 of themidsole 220 defines a remaining portion of empty space that receives thefootwear plate 300. Accordingly, the cushioning member 250 and the plate300 may substantially occupy the entire volume of space between thebottom surface 222 of the midsole 220 and the inner surface 214 of theoutsole 210. The cushioning member 250 may compress resiliently betweenthe midsole 220 and the outsole 210. In some configurations, thecushioning member 250 corresponds to a slab of polymer foam having asurface profile configured to receive the footwear plate 300 thereon.The cushioning member 250 may be formed from any suitable materials thatcompress resiliently under applied loads. Examples of suitable polymermaterials for the foam materials include ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)copolymers, polyurethanes, polyethers, and olefin block copolymers. Thefoam can also include a single polymeric material or a blend of two ormore polymeric materials including a polyether block amide (PEBA)copolymer, the EVA copolymer, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and/orthe olefin block copolymer. The cushioning member 250 may include adensity within a range from about 0.05 grams per cubic centimeter(g/cm³) to about 0.20 g/cm³. In some examples, the density of thecushioning member 250 is approximately 0.1 g/cm³. Moreover, thecushioning member 250 may include a hardness within the range from abouteleven (11) Shore A to about fifty (50) Shore A. The one or morematerials forming the cushioning member 250 may be suitable forproviding an energy return of at least 60-percent (60%).

In some examples, a fluid-filled bladder 400 is disposed between thefootwear plate 300 and the cushioning member 250 in at least one portion12, 14, 16 of the sole structure 200 to enhance cushioningcharacteristics of the footwear 10 responsive to ground-reaction forces.For instance, the fluid-filled bladder 400 may define an interior voidthat receives a pressurized fluid and provides a durable sealed barrierfor retaining the pressurized fluid therein. The pressurized fluid maybe air, nitrogen, helium, or dense gases such as sulfur hexafluoride.The fluid-filled bladder may additionally or alternatively containliquids or gels. In other examples, the fluid-filled bladder 400 isdisposed between the cushioning member 250 and the outsole 210, orbetween the plate 300 and the midsole 220. FIGS. 2 and 3 show thefluid-filled bladder 400 residing in the heel portion 16 of the solestructure 200 to assist with attenuating the initial impact with theground surface occurring in the heel portion 16. In otherconfigurations, one or more fluid-filled bladders 400 may additionallyor alternatively extend through the mid-foot portion 14 and/or forefootportion 12 of the sole structure 200. The cushioning member 250 and thefluid-filled bladder 400 may cooperate with enhance functionality andcushioning characteristics when the sole structure 200 is under load.

The length of the footwear plate 300 may extend between a first end 301and a second end 302. The first end 301 may be disposed proximate to theheel portion 16 of the sole structure 200 and the second end 302 may bedisposed proximate to the forefoot portion 12 of the sole structure 200.The first end 301 may also be referred to as a “posterior-most point” ofthe plate 300 while the second end 302 may also be referred to as an“anterior-most point” of the plate. In some examples, the length of thefootwear plate 300 is less than a length of the cushioning member 250.The footwear plate 300 may also include a thickness extendingsubstantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the solestructure 200 and a width extending between the lateral side 18 and themedial side 20. Accordingly, the length, the width, and the thickness ofthe plate 300 may substantially occupy the cavity 240 defined by the topsurface 254 of the cushioning member 250 and the bottom surface 222 ofthe midsole and may extend through the forefoot, mid-foot, and heelportions 12, 14, 16, respectively, of the sole structure 200. In someexamples (e.g., FIG. 35), peripheral edges of the footwear plate 300 arevisible along the lateral and/or medial sides 18, 20 of the footwear 10.

Referring to FIG. 3, a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3of FIG. 1 shows the footwear plate 300 disposed between the cushioningmember 250 and the midsole 220 and the cushioning member 250 disposedbetween the outsole 210 and the footwear plate 300. The insole 260 maybe disposed upon the footbed 224 within the interior void 102 under thefoot. FIG. 3 shows the cushioning member 250 defining a reducedthickness to accommodate the fluid-filled bladder 400 within the heelregion 16. In some examples, the cushioning member 250 encapsulates thebladder 400, while in other examples, the cushioning member 250 merelydefines a cut-out for receiving the bladder 400. In some configurations,a portion of the plate 300 is in direct contact with the fluid-filledbladder 400. The cushioning member 250 may define a greater thickness inthe heel portion 16 of the sole structure 200 than in the forefootportion 12. In other words, the gap or distance separating the outsole210 and the midsole 220 decreases in a direction along the longitudinalaxis L of the sole structure 200 from the heel portion 16 toward theforefoot portion 12. In some implementations, the top surface 254 of thecushioning member 250 is smooth and includes a surface profile contouredto match the surface profile of the footwear plate 300 such that thefootwear plate 300 and the cushioning member 250 mate flush with oneanother. The cushioning member 250 may define a thickness in theforefoot portion 12 of the sole structure within a range from aboutseven (7) millimeters (mm) to about twenty (20) mm. In one example, thethickness of the cushioning member 250 in the forefoot portion 12 isabout twelve (12) mm.

In some configurations, e.g., the footwear plate 10 f of FIGS. 33 and34, footwear having spikes for track events, i.e., “track shoes”,incorporates a cushioning member 250 f (FIG. 34) within the forefootportion 12 between the plate 300 and outsole 210 that has a reducedthickness of about eight (8) mm. In these configurations, the cushioningmember 250 may be absent between the plate 300 and outsole 210 withinthe forefoot portion 12. Moreover, cushioning material associated withthe same cushioning member 250 or a different cushioning member may bedisposed between the plate 300 and the midsole 220 and extend throughthe forefoot, mid-foot, and heel portions 12, 14, 16, respectively.

The footwear plate 300 includes a curved region 310 extending throughthe forefoot portion 12 and the mid-foot portion 14 of the solestructure 200. The terms “curved portion”, “concave portion”, and“circular portion” may also be used to describe the curved region 310.The footwear plate 300 may optionally include a substantially flatregion 312 extending through the heel portion 16 from the curved region310 to the posterior-most point 301 of the plate 300. The curved region310 is associated with a radius of curvature about an MTP point 320 todefine an anterior curved portion 322 extending from one side of the MTPpoint 320 and a posterior curved portion 324 extending from the otherside of the MTP point 320. For instance, the anterior curved portion 322extends between the MTP point 320 and the anterior-most point (AMP) 302(e.g., second end 302) of the plate 300, while the posterior curvedportion 324 extends between the MTP point 320 and an aft point 326disposed at a junction of the curved region 310 and the flat region 312.In some examples, the anterior curved portion 322 and the posteriorcurved portion 324 are associated with the same radius of curvature thatis mirrored about the MTP point 320. In other examples, the anteriorcurved portion 322 and the posterior curved portion 324 are eachassociated with a different radius of curvature. In some configurations,a portion of the posterior curved portion 324 is associated with thesame radius of curvature as the anterior curved portion 322.Accordingly, the curved portions 322, 324 may each include acorresponding radius of curvature that may be the same or may bedifferent from one another. In some examples, the radius of curvaturesdiffer from one another by at least two percent (2%). The radius ofcurvatures for the curved regions 322, 324 may range from 200millimeters (mm) to about 400 mm. In some configurations, the anteriorcurved portion 322 includes a radius of curvature that continues thecurvature of the posterior curved portion 324 such that the curvedportions 322, 324 define the same radius of curvature and share a samevertex. Additionally or alternatively, the plate may define a radius ofcurvature that connects the posterior curved portion 324 to thesubstantially flat region 312 of the plate 300. As used herein, the term“substantially flat” refers to the flat region 312 within five (5)degrees horizontal, i.e., within five (5) degrees parallel to the groundsurface.

The MTP point 320 is the closest point of the footwear plate 300 to theinner surface 214 of the outsole 210 while the aft point 326 and the AMP302 of the plate 300 are disposed further from the outsole 210 than theMTP point 320. In some configurations, the posterior-most point 301 andthe AMP 302 are co-planar. In some examples, the MTP point 320 of theplate 300 is disposed directly below the MTP joint of the foot when thefoot is received within the interior void 102 of the upper 100. In otherexamples, the MTP point 320 is disposed at a location that is furtherfrom a toe end of the sole structure 200 than the MTP joint. Theanterior curved and posterior curved portions 322, 324, respectively, ofthe curved region 310 provide the plate 300 with a longitudinalstiffness that reduces energy loss proximate to the MTP joint of thefoot, as well as enhances rolling of the foot during running motions tothereby reduce a lever arm distance and alleviate strain on the anklejoint.

In some implementations, the AMP 302 and the aft point 326 are locatedabove the MTP point 320 by a distance substantially equal to positionheight H. Here, the position height H extends from the MTP 320 in adirection substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of thesole structure 200. The height H ranges from about three (3) millimeters(mm) to about twenty-eight (28) mm. In other examples, the height Hranges from about three (3) mm to about seventeen (17) mm. In oneexample, the height H is equal to about seventeen (17) mm. Thus, thetoes of the foot residing above the anterior curved portion 322 may bebiased upward due to the anterior curved portion 322 extending away fromthe outsole 210 from the MTP point 320 toward the AMP 302. Additionallyor alternatively, a length L_(A) of the anterior curved portion 322 maybe substantially equal to a length L_(P) of the posterior curved portion324. As used herein, the L_(A) and L_(P) are each measured along a lineextending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L between theMTP point 320 and respective ones of the AMP 302 and the aft point 326.In other words, the lengths L_(A) and L_(P) are each associated with adistance between the MTP point 320 and a corresponding one of the AMP302 and the aft point 326. In some configurations, the L_(A) and theL_(P) are each equal to about thirty percent (30%) of a total length ofthe plate 300 while a length of the flat region 312 accounts for theremaining forty percent (40%) of the total length of the plate 300. Inother configurations, the L_(A) is equal from about twenty-five percent(25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) of the total length of theplate 300, L_(P) is equal from about twenty-five percent (25%) to aboutthirty-five percent (35%) of the total length of the plate 300, and thelength of the flat region 312 is equal to the balance. In otherconfigurations, L_(A), L_(P), and the length of the flat region 312 aresubstantially equal. Varying the radius of curvature of the curvedregion 310 causes the lengths L_(A) and L_(P) and/or the height (H) ofthe anterior-most point 302 and the aft point 306 to change relative tothe MTP point 320. For instance, decreasing the radius of curvaturecauses an angle between the MTP point 320 and the AMP 302 to increase aswell as the height H of the AMP 302 above the MTP point 320 to alsoincrease. In configurations when the curved portions 322, 324 eachinclude a different radius of curvature, the corresponding lengths Laand Lp and/or the height from the MTP point 320 may be different.Accordingly, the radius of curvature of the curved region 310 may varyfor different shoe sizes, may vary depending upon an intended use of thefootwear 10, and/or may vary based upon the anatomical features of thefoot on a wearer-by-wear basis.

In some implementations, the MTP point 320 is located approximatelythirty percent (30%) of the total length of the plate from the AMP 302.A center of the radius of curvature of the curved region 310 may belocated at the MTP point 320. In some examples, the curved region 310(e.g., concave portion) is associated with a constant radius ofcurvature that extends from the AMP 302 past the MTP point 320. In theseexamples, the constant radius of curvature may extend from the AMP 302past the MTP point 320 at least forty percent (40%) of the total lengthof the plate 300 from the AMP 302.

FIGS. 4-6 provide an article of footwear 10 a that includes an upper 100and a sole structure 200 a attached to the upper 100. In view of thesubstantial similarity in structure and function of the componentsassociated with the article of footwear 10 with respect to the articleof footwear 10 a, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and inthe drawings to identify like components while like reference numeralscontaining letter extensions are used to identify those components thathave been modified.

The sole structure 200 a may include the outsole 210, a first cushioningmember 250 a, the footwear plate 300, a second cushioning member 270,and a midsole/strobel 220 a arranged in the layered configuration. FIG.5 provides an exploded view of the article of footwear 10 a showing thesole structure 200 a (e.g., the outsole 210, the cushioning members 250a, 270, the plate 300, and the midsole 220 a) defining a longitudinalaxis L. The outsole 210 includes the inner surface 214 disposed on anopposite side of the outsole 210 than the ground-engaging surface 212.The midsole 220 a includes a bottom surface 222 a disposed on anopposite side of the midsole 220 a than the footbed 224 and opposing theinner surface 214 of the outsole 210.

The first cushioning member 250 a, the footwear plate 300, and thesecond cushioning member 270 are disposed between the inner surface 214and the bottom surface 222 a to separate the midsole 220 a from theoutsole 210. For example, the first cushioning member 250 a includes thebottom surface 252 received by the inner surface 214 of the outsole 210and a top surface 254 a disposed on an opposite side of the cushioningmember 250 a than the bottom surface 252 and opposing the midsole 220 ato support the footwear plate 300 thereon. The second cushioning member270 is disposed on an opposite side of the footwear plate 300 than thefirst cushioning member. For instance, the second cushioning member 270includes a bottom surface 272 opposing the footwear plate 300 and a topsurface 274 disposed on an opposite side of the second cushioning member270 than the bottom surface 272 and opposing the bottom surface 222 a ofthe midsole 220 a. The top surface 274 may be contoured to conform tothe profile of the bottom surface (e.g., plantar) of the foot within theinterior void 102. As with the cushioning member 250 of FIGS. 1-3, thesecond cushioning member 270 may define a sidewall 230 a surrounding atleast a portion of a perimeter of the second cushioning member 270. Thesidewall 230 a may define a rim that extends around the perimeter of themidsole 220 a when the second cushioning member 270 attaches to themidsole 220 a.

In some configurations, a total thickness of the first and secondcushioning members 250 a, 270, respectively, is equal to the thicknessof the cushioning member 250 of the article of footwear 10 of FIGS. 1-3.The thickness of the first cushioning member 250 may be the same ordifferent than the thickness of the second cushioning member 270. Thefirst and second cushioning members 250 a, 270 are operative to embed orsandwich the footwear plate 300 therebetween such that the footwearplate 300 is spaced apart from both the inner surface 214 of the outsole210 and the bottom surface 222 a of the midsole 220 a. Accordingly, thecushioning members 250 a, 270 and the plate 300 may substantially occupythe entire volume of space between the bottom surface 222 a of themidsole/strobel 220 a and the inner surface 214 of the outsole 210.

The cushioning members 250 a, 270 may compress resiliently between themidsole 220 and the outsole 210. The cushioning members 250 a, 270 mayeach be formed from a slab of polymer foam which may be formed from thesame one or more materials forming the cushioning member 250 of FIGS.1-3. For instance, the cushioning members 250 a, 270 may be formed fromone or more of EVA copolymers, polyurethanes, polyethers, olefin blockcopolymers, PEBA copolymers, and/or TPUs. In some implementations, thecushioning members 250 a, 270 provide different cushioningcharacteristics. For instance, the first cushioning member 250 a maycompress resiliently under applied loads to prevent the plate 300 fromtranslating into contact with ground surface while the second cushioningmember 270 may provide a level of soft-type cushioning for the foot toattenuate ground-reaction forces and enhance comfort for the wearer'sfoot. The sole structure 200 a may also incorporate the fluid-filledbladder 400 between the footwear plate 300 and the first cushioningmember 250 a in at least one portion 12, 14, 16 of the sole structure toenhance cushioning characteristics of the footwear 10 in responsive toground-reaction forces. For instance, the bladder 400 may be filled witha pressurized fluid such as air, nitrogen, helium, sulfur hexafluoride,or liquids/gels. Accordingly, the cushioning members 250 a, 270separated by the plate 300 and the fluid-filled bladder 400 maycooperate to provide gradient cushioning to the article of footwear 10 athat changes as the applied load changes (i.e., the greater the load,the more the cushioning members 250 a, 270 compress and, thus, the moreresponsive the footwear performs). The cushioning members 250 a, 270 mayinclude densities within a range from about 0.05 g/cm³ to about 0.20g/cm³. In some examples, the density of the cushioning members 250 a,270 is approximately 0.1 g/cm³. Moreover, the cushioning members 250 a,270 may include hardnesses within the range from about eleven (11) ShoreA to about fifty (50) Shore A. The one or more materials forming thecushioning members 250 a, 270 may be suitable for providing an energyreturn of at least 60-percent (60%).

The footwear plate 300 defines the length extending between the firstend 301 and the second end 302 (e.g., AMP 302) that may be the same asor less than the lengths of the cushioning members 250 a, 270. Thelength, width, and thickness of the plate 300 may substantially occupythe volume of space between the top surface 254 of the first cushioningmember 250 and the bottom surface 272 of the second cushioning member270 and may extend through the forefoot, mid-foot, and heel portions 12,14, 16, respectively, of the sole structure 200 a. In some examples, theplate 300 extends through the forefoot portion 12 and the mid-footportion 14 of the sole structure 200 a but is absent from the heelportion 16. In some examples, peripheral edges of the footwear plate 300are visible along the lateral and/or medial sides 18, 20 of the footwear10 a. In some implementations, the top surface 254 of the firstcushioning member 250 a and the bottom surface 272 of the secondcushioning member 270 are smooth and include surface profiles contouredto match the surface profiles of the opposing sides of the footwearplate 300 such that the footwear plate 300 mates flush with each of thecushioning members 250 a, 270.

As described above with reference to FIGS. 1-3, the footwear plate 300may include the uniform local stiffness that may or may not beanisotropic. For instance, the plate 300 may be formed from one or morelayers and/or tows of fibers including at least one of carbon fibers,boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. Thus, the plate 300may provide a greater thickness along the longitudinal direction of thesole structure than the stiffness in direction transverse (e.g.,perpendicular) to the longitudinal axis L. For instance, the stiffnessof the plate 300 in the transverse direction may be at least 10-percentless than the stiffness of the plate 300 in the longitudinal direction,or may be approximately 10-percent to 20-percent of the thickness of theplate 300 along the longitudinal direction (e.g., parallel tolongitudinal axis L). Moreover, the plate 300 may include asubstantially uniform thickness within the range of about 0.6 mm toabout 3.0 mm across the plate 300 or a non-uniform thickness that variesacross the plate, e.g., the thickness of the plate 300 in the mid-footportion 14 is greater than the thicknesses in the forefoot portion 12and the heel portion 16.

FIG. 6 provides a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 ofFIG. 4 showing the footwear plate 300 disposed between the first andsecond cushioning members 250 a, 270, respectively, the first cushioningmember 250 a disposed between the outsole 210 and the footwear plate300, and the second cushioning member 270 disposed between the midsole220 a and the footwear plate 300. The insole 260 may be disposed uponthe footbed 224 within the interior void 102 under the foot. The firstcushioning member 250 a may encapsulate the bladder 400 or define acut-out for receiving the bladder 400, while a portion of the plate 300may be in direct contact with the bladder 400. In some configurations,the first cushioning member 250 a defines a greater thickness in theheel portion 16 of the sole structure 200 a than in the forefoot portion12 and the top surface 254 includes a surface profile contoured to matchthe surface profile of the footwear plate 300 supported thereon. Thesecond cushioning member 270 may cooperate with the first cushioningmember 250 a to define a space for enclosing the footwear plate 300therebetween. For instance, portions of the bottom surface 272 of thesecond cushioning member 270 and the top surface 254 of the firstcushioning member 250 a may be recessed to define a cavity for retainingthe footwear plate 300. In some implementations, the thickness of thesecond cushioning member 270 is greater in the forefoot and mid-footportions 12, 14, respectively, than the thickness of the firstcushioning member 250 a. Advantageously, the increased thicknessprovided by the second cushioning member 270 in the forefoot andmid-foot portions 12, 14, respectively, increases the separationdistance between the MTP joint of the foot and the footwear plate 300and, thus, enhances cushioning characteristics of the footwear 10 a inresponse to ground-reaction forces when the footwear 10 a performsrunning movements/motions. In some configurations, the thickness of thesecond cushioning member 270 is greater than the thickness of the firstcushioning member 250 a at locations opposing the MTP point 320 of theplate 300. In these configurations, the second cushioning member 270 maydefine a maximum thickness at a location opposing the MTP point 320 thatis equal to a value within a range from about 3.0 mm to about 13.0 mm.In one example, the maximum thickness is equal to approximately 10.0 mm.The thickness of the second cushioning member 270 may taper along thedirection from the MTP point 320 to the AMP 302 such that the thicknessof the second cushioning member 270 proximate to the AMP 302 isapproximately sixty-percent (60%) less than the maximum thicknessproximate to the MTP point 320. On the other hand, the first cushioningmember 250 a may define a minimum thickness at the location opposing theMTP point 320 that is equal to a value within a range from about 0.5 mmto about 6.0 mm. In one example, the minimum thickness is equal toapproximately 3.0 mm.

The footwear plate 300 includes the curved region 310 extending throughthe forefoot portion 12 and the mid-foot portion 14 and may optionallyinclude the substantially flat region 312 extending through the heelportion 16 from the aft point 326 at the curved region 310 to theposterior-most point 301 of the plate 300. The radius of curvature ofthe curved region 310 defines the anterior curved portion 322 extendingbetween MTP point 320 and the AMP 302 at the toe end of the solestructure 200 a, and the posterior curved portion 322 extending betweenthe MTP point 320 and the aft point 326. In some configurations, theanterior curved portion 322 and the posterior curved portion 324 eachinclude the same radius of curvature mirrored about the MTP point 320.In other configurations, the curved portions 322, 324 are eachassociated with a different radius of curvature. Accordingly, the curvedportions 322, 324 may each include a corresponding radius of curvaturethat may be the same or may be different from one another. In someexamples, the radius of curvatures differ from one another by at leasttwo percent (2%). The radius of curvatures for the curved regions 322,324 may range from about 200 millimeters (mm) to about 400 mm. In someconfigurations, the anterior curved portion 322 includes a radius ofcurvature that continues the curvature of the posterior curved portion324 such that the curved portions 322, 324 define the same radius ofcurvature and share a same vertex. Additionally or alternatively, theplate may define a radius of curvature that connects the posteriorcurved portion 324 to the substantially flat region 312 of the plate300. As used herein, the term “substantially flat” refers to the flatregion 312 within five (5) degrees horizontal, i.e., within five (5)degrees parallel to the ground surface.

The curved portions 322, 324 may each account for about 30-percent (%)of the total length of the plate 300 while the length of the flat region312 may account for the remaining 40-percent (%) of the length of theplate 300. The anterior curved and posterior curved portions 322, 324,respectively, of the curved region 310 provide the plate 300 with alongitudinal stiffness that reduces energy loss proximate to the MTPjoint of the foot, as well as enhances rolling of the foot duringrunning motions to thereby reduce a lever arm distance and alleviatestrain on the ankle joint. The AMP 302 and the aft point 326 are locatedabove the MTP point 320 and may be located above the MTP point 320 by adistance substantially equal position height H. Moreover, the lengthL_(A) of the anterior curved portion 322 and the length L_(P) of theposterior curved portion 324 (e.g., measured along the line extendingsubstantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L between the MTP point320 and respective ones of the AMP 302 and the aft point 326) may besubstantially equal to one another or may be different. As describedabove with reference to FIGS. 1-3, varying the radius of curvature ofthe curved region 310 causes the lengths L_(A) and L_(P) and/or theheight (H) of the anterior most point 302 and the aft point 306 tochange relative to the MTP point 320. In doing so, the stiffness of theplate 300 may vary to provide a custom footwear plate 300 tailored forthe wearer's shoe size, the intended use of the footwear 10, and/or thewearer's anatomical features of the foot.

FIGS. 7-9 provide an article of footwear 10 b that includes an upper 100and a sole structure 200 b attached to the upper 100. In view of thesubstantial similarity in structure and function of the componentsassociated with the article of footwear 10 with respect to the articleof footwear 10 b, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and inthe drawings to identify like components while like reference numeralscontaining letter extensions are used to identify those components thathave been modified.

FIG. 8 provides an exploded view of the article of footwear 10 b showingthe sole structure 200 b include an outsole 210 b, a cushioning member250 b, and a midsole/strobel 220 b arranged in a layered configurationand defining a longitudinal axis L. The outsole 210 b includes an innersurface 214 b disposed on an opposite side of the outsole 210 b than theground-engaging surface 212. The midsole 220 b includes a bottom surface222 b disposed on an opposite side of the midsole 220 b than the footbed224. The cushioning member 250 b is disposed between the inner surface214 b and the bottom surface 222 b to separate the midsole 220 b fromthe outsole 210 b. For example, the cushioning member 250 a includes abottom surface 252 b opposing the inner surface 214 b of the outsole 210and a top surface 254 b disposed on an opposite side of the cushioningmember 250 b than the bottom surface 252 b and opposing the midsole 220b. The top surface 254 b may be contoured to conform to the profile ofthe bottom surface (e.g., plantar of the foot) within the interior void102. As with the cushioning member 250 of the article of FIGS. 1-3, thecushioning member 250 b may define a sidewall 230 b surrounding at leasta portion of a perimeter of the second cushioning member 250 b. Thesidewall 230 b may define a rim that extends around the perimeter of themidsole 220 a when the cushioning member 250 b attaches to the midsole220 b.

The cushioning member 250 b may compress resiliently between the midsole220 b and the outsole 210 b and may be formed from the same one or morematerials forming the cushioning member 250 of FIGS. 1-3. For instance,the cushioning member 250 b may be formed form one or more of EVAcopolymers, polyurethanes, polyethers, olefin block copolymers, PEBAcopolymers, and/or TPUs. The sole structure 200 a may also incorporatethe fluid-filled bladder 400 between the footwear plate 300 and thefirst cushioning member 250 a in at least one portion 12, 14, 16 of thesole structure to enhance cushioning characteristics of the footwear 10in responsive to ground-reaction forces. For instance, the bladder 400may be filled with a pressurized fluid such as air, nitrogen, helium,sulfur hexafluoride, or liquids/gels.

In some configurations, the cushioning member 250 b defines a cavity 240b (e.g., sleeve) within an interior portion between the top surface 254b and the bottom surface 252 b in the heel portion 16 of the solestructure 200 b. FIG. 9 provides a partial cross-sectional view takenalong 9-9 of FIG. 7 showing the substantially flat region 312 of thefootwear plate 300 received within the cavity 240 b of the cushioningmember 250 b and the curved region 310 exposed from the cavity 240 bbetween the bottom surface 252 b of the cushioning member 250 b and theinner surface 214 b of the outsole 210 b. FIG. 9 shows the bottomsurface 252 b of the cushioning member 250 b defining an access opening242 to the cavity 240 b for receiving the substantially flat portion 312of the plate 300. The cavity 240 b may be contiguous with a cut-outformed within the cushioning member 250 b for embedding the fluid-filledbladder 400. Thus, the sole structure 200 b incorporated by the articleof footwear 10 b of FIGS. 7-9 includes the bottom surface 252 b of thecushioning member 250 b affixing to the inner surface 214 b of theoutsole 210 b in the heel portion 16, while the curved region 310 of theplate 300 extending out of the cavity 240 b of the cushioning member 250b at the access opening 242 is in direct contact with the inner surface214 in the forefoot and mid-foot portions 12, 14, respectively.Accordingly, the cavity 240 b defined by the cushioning member 250 b isoperative to embed/encapsulate at least a portion (e.g., flat region312) of the plate 300 therein. As with the cushioning member 250 andplate 300 of FIGS. 1-3, the cushioning member 250 b and the plate 300may substantially occupy the entire volume of space between the bottomsurface 222 b of the midsole 220 b and the inner surface 214 b of theoutsole 210 b.

The insole 260 may be disposed upon the footbed 224 within the interiorvoid 102 under the foot. The cushioning member 250 b may encapsulate thebladder 450 or define a cut-out for receiving the bladder 400, while aportion of the plate 300 may be in direct contact with the bladder 400.The cut-out receiving the bladder 400 may be contiguous with the cavity240 b formed through the cushioning member 250 b. In someconfigurations, the cushioning member 250 b defines a greater thicknessin the heel portion 16 of the sole structure 200 b than in the forefootportion 12. In some examples, the thickness of the cushioning member 250b separating the bottom surface 222 b of the midsole 220 b and the plate300 is greater at locations proximate to the curved region 310 of theplate 300 than at the locations proximate to the substantially flatregion 312 of the plate 300. In these examples, the cushioning member250 b is operative to increase the separation distance between the plate300 and the midsole 220 b such that the MTP joint of the foot isprevented from contacting the plate 300 during use of the footwear 10 bwhile performing running movements/motions. The cushioning member 250 bmay define a thickness in the forefoot portion 12 of the sole structure200 b within a range from about seven (7) millimeters (mm) to abouttwenty (20) mm. In one example, the thickness of the cushioning member250 b in the forefoot portion 12 is about twelve (12) mm. The cushioningmember 250 b may include a density within a range from about 0.05 gramsper cubic centimeter (g/cm³) to about 0.20 g/cm³. In some examples, thedensity of the cushioning member 250 b is approximately 0.1 g/cm³.Moreover, the cushioning member 250 b may include a hardness within therange from about eleven (11) Shore A to about fifty (50) Shore A. Theone or more materials forming the cushioning member 250 b may besuitable for providing an energy return of at least 60-percent (60%).

As described above with reference to FIGS. 1-3, the footwear plate 300may include the uniform local stiffness that may or may not beanisotropic. For instance, the plate 300 may be formed from one or moretows of fibers including at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers,glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. Thus, the plate 300 may provide agreater thickness along the longitudinal direction of the sole structurethan the stiffness in direction transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to thelongitudinal axis L. For instance, the stiffness of the plate 300 in thetransverse direction may be approximately 10-percent to 20-percent ofthe thickness of the plate 300 along the longitudinal direction (e.g.,parallel to longitudinal axis L). Moreover, the plate 300 may include asubstantially uniform thickness within the range of about 0.6 mm toabout 3.0 mm across the plate 300 or a non-uniform thickness that variesacross the plate, e.g., the thickness of the plate 300 in the mid-footportion 14 is greater than the thicknesses in the forefoot portion 12and the heel portion 16. In some examples, the plate 300 includes athickness equal to about 1.0 mm.

The radius of curvature of the curved region 310 defines the anteriorcurved portion 322 extending between MTP point 320 and the AMP 302 atthe toe end of the sole structure 200 b, and the posterior curvedportion 322 extending between the MTP point 320 and the aft point 326.In some configurations, the anterior curved portion 322 and theposterior curved portion 324 each include the same radius of curvaturemirrored about the MTP point 320. In other configurations, the curvedportions 322, 324 are each associated with a different radius ofcurvature. The curved portions 322, 324 may each account for about30-percent (%) of the total length of the plate 300 while the length ofthe flat region 312 may account for the remaining 40-percent (%) of thelength of the plate 300. The anterior curved and posterior curvedportions 322, 324, respectively, of the curved region 310 provide theplate 300 with a longitudinal stiffness that reduces energy lossproximate to the MTP joint of the foot, as well as enhances rolling ofthe foot during running motions to thereby reduce a lever arm distanceand alleviate strain on the ankle joint. The AMP 302 and the aft point326 are located above the MTP point 320 and may be located above the MTPpoint 320 by a distance substantially equal position height H. Moreover,the length L_(A) of the anterior curved portion 322 and the length L_(P)of the posterior curved portion 324 (e.g., measured along the lineextending substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L between theMTP point 320 and respective ones of the AMP 302 and the aft point 326)may be substantially equal to one another or may be different. Asdescribed above with reference to FIGS. 1-3, varying the radius ofcurvature of the curved region 310 causes the lengths L_(A) and L_(P)and/or the height (H) of the anterior most point 302 and the aft point306 to change relative to the MTP point 320. In doing so, the stiffnessof the plate 300 may vary to provide a custom footwear plate 300tailored for the wearer's shoe size, the intended use of the footwear10, and/or the wearer's anatomical features of the foot.

FIGS. 10-12 provide an article of footwear 10 c that includes an upper100 and a sole structure 200 c attached to the upper 100. In view of thesubstantial similarity in structure and function of the componentsassociated with the article of footwear 10 with respect to the articleof footwear 10 c, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and inthe drawings to identify like components while like reference numeralscontaining letter extensions are used to identify those components thathave been modified.

FIG. 11 provides an exploded view of the article of footwear 10 cshowing the sole structure 200 c including an outsole 210 c, acushioning member 250 c, and a midsole/strobel 220 c arranged in alayered configuration and defining a longitudinal axis L. The outsole210 c includes an inner surface 214 c disposed on an opposite side ofthe outsole 210 c than the ground-engaging surface 212. The midsole 220c includes a bottom surface 222 c disposed on an opposite side of themidsole 220 c than the footbed 224. The cushioning member 250 c isdisposed between the inner surface 214 c and the bottom surface 222 c toseparate the midsole 220 c from the outsole 210 c. For example, thecushioning member 250 c includes a bottom surface 252 c opposing theinner surface 214 c of the outsole 210 c and a top surface 254 cdisposed on an opposite side of the cushioning member 250 c than thebottom surface 252 c and opposing the midsole 220 c. The top surface 254c may be contoured to conform to the profile of the bottom surface(e.g., plantar) of the foot within the interior void 102. As with thecushioning member 250 of the article of FIGS. 1-3, the cushioning member250 c may define a sidewall 230 c surrounding at least a portion of aperimeter of the second cushioning member 250 c. The sidewall 230 c maydefine a rim that extends around the perimeter of the midsole 220 c whenthe cushioning member 250 c attaches to the midsole 220 c.

The cushioning member 250 c may compress resiliently between the midsole220 c and the outsole 210 c and may be formed from the same one or morematerials forming the cushioning member 250 of FIGS. 1-3. For instance,the cushioning member 250 c may be formed form one or more of EVAcopolymers, polyurethanes, polyethers, olefin block copolymers, PEBAcopolymers, and/or TPUs. The sole structure 200 c may also incorporatethe fluid-filled bladder 400 between the footwear plate 300 and thecushioning member 250 c in at least one portion 12, 14, 16 of the solestructure 200 c to enhance cushioning characteristics of the footwear 10c in responsive to ground-reaction forces. For instance, the bladder 400may be filled with a pressurized fluid such as air, nitrogen, helium,sulfur hexafluoride, or liquids/gels. The cushioning member 250 c mayinclude a density within a range from about 0.05 grams per cubiccentimeter (g/cm³) to about 0.20 g/cm³. In some examples, the density ofthe cushioning member 250 c is approximately 0.1 g/cm³. Moreover, thecushioning member 250 may include a hardness within the range from abouteleven (11) Shore A to about fifty (50) Shore A. The one or morematerials forming the cushioning member 250 c may be suitable forproviding an energy return of at least 60-percent (60%).

In some configurations, the cushioning member 250 c defines a cavity 240c (e.g., sleeve) within an interior portion between the top surface 254c and the bottom surface 252 c in the forefoot and mid-foot portions 12,14, respectively, of the sole structure 200 c. FIG. 12 provides apartial cross-sectional view taken along 12-12 of FIG. 10 showing thecurved region 310 of the footwear plate 300 received within the cavity240 c of the cushioning member 250 and the substantially flat region 312exposed from the cavity 240 c between the top surface 254 c of thecushioning member 250 c and the bottom surface 222 c of the midsole 220c. FIG. 12 shows the top surface 254 c of the cushioning member 250 cdefining an access opening 242 c to the cavity 240 c for receiving thecurved region 310 of the plate 300. Thus, the sole structure 200 cincorporated by the article of footwear 10 c of FIGS. 10-12 includes thetop surface 254 c of the cushioning member 250 c affixing to the bottomsurface 222 c of the midsole 220 c in the forefoot and mid-foot portions12, 14, respectively, while the substantially flat region 312 of theplate 300 extending out of the cavity 240 c of the cushioning member 250c at the access opening 242 c is in direct contact with the bottomsurface 222 c in the heel portion 16. The entire bottom surface 252 c ofthe cushioning member 250 c affixes to the inner surface 214 c of theoutsole 210 c. Accordingly, the cavity 240 c defined by the cushioningmember 250 c is operative to embed/encapsulate at least a portion (e.g.,curved region 310) of the plate 300 therein. In other words, the curvedregion 310 of the plate supporting the MTP joint of the foot isseparated from the outsole 210 c and the midsole 220 c by respectiveportions of the cushioning member 250 c on opposite sides of the cavity240 c. As with the cushioning member 250 and plate 300 of FIGS. 1-3, thecushioning member 250 c and the plate 300 may substantially occupy theentire volume of space between the bottom surface 222 c of the midsole220 c and the inner surface 214 c of the outsole 210 c. The insole 260may be disposed upon the footbed 224 within the interior void 102 underthe foot. The cushioning member 250 c may encapsulate the bladder 400 ordefine a cut-out for receiving the bladder 400, while a portion of theplate 300 may be in direct contact with the bladder 400. In someconfigurations, the cushioning member 250 c defines a greater thicknessin the heel portion 16 of the sole structure 200 c than in the forefootportion 12. The cushioning member 250 c may define a thickness in theforefoot portion 12 of the sole structure 200 c within a range fromabout seven (7) millimeters (mm) to about twenty (20) mm. In oneexample, the thickness of the cushioning member 250 c in the forefootportion 12 is about twelve (12) mm. In some implementations, thethickness of the cushioning member 250 c between the plate 300 and thebottom surface 222 c of the midsole 220 c in the forefoot portion 12 iswithin a range from about three (3) mm to about twenty-eight (28) mm.Additionally or alternatively, the thickness of the cushioning member250 c between the plate 300 and the inner surface 214 c of the outsole210 c in the forefoot portion 12 is within a range from about two (2) mmto about thirteen (13) mm.

As described above with reference to FIGS. 1-3, the footwear plate 300may include the uniform local stiffness that may or may not beanisotropic. For instance, the plate 300 may be formed from one or moretows of fibers including at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers,glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. Thus, the plate 300 may provide agreater thickness along the longitudinal direction of the sole structurethan the stiffness in direction transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to thelongitudinal axis L. For instance, the stiffness of the plate 300 in thetransverse direction may be approximately 10-percent to 20-percent ofthe thickness of the plate 300 along the longitudinal direction (e.g.,parallel to longitudinal axis L). Moreover, the plate 300 may include asubstantially uniform thickness within the range of about 0.6 mm toabout 3.0 mm across the plate 300 or a non-uniform thickness that variesacross the plate, e.g., the thickness of the plate 300 in the mid-footportion 14 is greater than the thicknesses in the forefoot portion 12and the heel portion 16.

The radius of curvature of the curved region 310 defines the anteriorcurved portion 322 extending between MTP point 320 and the AMP 302 atthe toe end of the sole structure 200 a, and the posterior curvedportion 322 extending between the MTP point 320 and the aft point 326.In some configurations, the anterior curved portion 322 and theposterior curved portion 324 each include the same radius of curvaturemirrored about the MTP point 320. In other configurations, the curvedportions 322, 324 are each associated with a different radius ofcurvature. The curved portions 322, 324 may each account for about30-percent (%) of the total length of the plate 300 while the length ofthe flat region 312 may account for the remaining 40-percent (%) of thelength of the plate 300. The anterior curved and posterior curvedportions 322, 324, respectively, of the curved region 310 provide theplate 300 with a longitudinal stiffness that reduces energy lossproximate to the MTP joint of the foot, as well as enhances rolling ofthe foot during running motions to thereby reduce a lever arm distanceand alleviate strain on the ankle joint. In other configurations, thecurved portions 322, 324 may each account for from about twenty-fivepercent (25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) of the total length ofthe plate 300. The AMP 302 and the aft point 326 are located above theMTP point 320 and may be located above the MTP point 320 by a distancesubstantially equal position height H. Moreover, the length L_(A) of theanterior curved portion 322 and the length L_(P) of the posterior curvedportion 324 (e.g., measured along the line extending substantiallyparallel to the longitudinal axis L between the MTP point 320 andrespective ones of the AMP 302 and the aft point 326) may besubstantially equal to one another or may be different. As describedabove with reference to FIGS. 1-3, varying the radius of curvature ofthe curved region 310 causes the lengths L_(A) and L_(P) and/or theheight (H) of the anterior most point 302 and the aft point 306 tochange relative to the MTP point 320. In doing so, the stiffness of theplate 300 may vary to provide a custom footwear plate 300 tailored forthe wearer's shoe size, the intended use of the footwear 10, and/or thewearer's anatomical features of the foot.

FIGS. 13-15 provide an article of footwear 10 d that includes an upper100 and a sole structure 200 d attached to the upper 100. In view of thesubstantial similarity in structure and function of the componentsassociated with the article of footwear 10 with respect to the articleof footwear 10 d, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and inthe drawings to identify like components while like reference numeralscontaining letter extensions are used to identify those components thathave been modified.

FIG. 14 provides an exploded view of the article of footwear 10 dshowing the sole structure 200 d including an outsole 210 d, acushioning member 250 d, and a midsole 220 d arranged in a layeredconfiguration and defining a longitudinal axis L. The outsole 210 dincludes an inner surface 214 d disposed on an opposite side of theoutsole 210 d than the ground-engaging surface 212. The midsole 220 dincludes a bottom surface 222 d disposed on an opposite side of themidsole 220 d than the footbed 224. The cushioning member 250 d isdisposed between the inner surface 214 d and the bottom surface 222 d toseparate the midsole 220 d from the outsole 210 d. For example, thecushioning member 250 d includes a bottom surface 252 d opposing theinner surface 214 d of the outsole 210 d and a top surface 254 ddisposed on an opposite side of the cushioning member 250 d than thebottom surface 252 d and opposing the midsole 220 d. The top surface 254d may be contoured to conform to the profile of the bottom surface(e.g., plantar) of the foot within the interior void 102. As with thecushioning member 250 of the article of FIGS. 1-3, the cushioning member250 d may define a sidewall 230 d surrounding at least a portion of aperimeter of the second cushioning member 250 d. The sidewall 230 d maydefine a rim that extends around the perimeter of the midsole 220 d whenthe cushioning member 250 d attaches to the midsole 220 d. Thecushioning member 250 d may compress resiliently between the midsole 220d and the outsole 210 d and may be formed from the same one or morematerials forming the cushioning member 250 of FIGS. 1-3. For instance,the cushioning member 250 d may be formed form one or more of EVAcopolymers, polyurethanes, polyethers, olefin block copolymers, PEBAcopolymers, and/or TPUs. The cushioning member 250 d may include adensity within a range from about 0.05 grams per cubic centimeter(g/cm³) to about 0.20 g/cm³. In some examples, the density of thecushioning member 250 d is approximately 0.1 g/cm³. Moreover, thecushioning member 250 d may include a hardness within the range fromabout eleven (11) Shore A to about fifty (50) Shore A. The one or morematerials forming the cushioning member 250 d may be suitable forproviding an energy return of at least 60-percent (60%).

In some configurations, the cushioning member 250 d defines a cavity 240d (e.g., sleeve) within an interior portion between the top surface 254d and the bottom surface 252 d in the forefoot and mid-foot portions 12,14, respectively, of the sole structure 200 d. In these configurations,the bottom surface 252 d of the cushioning member 250 d tapers towardthe top surface 254 d to define a reduced thickness for the cushioningmember 250 d in the heel portion 16 compared to the thickness in theforefoot and mid-foot portion 12, 14, respectively.

FIG. 15 provides a partial cross-sectional view taken along 15-15 ofFIG. 13 showing the curved region 310 of the footwear plate 300 receivedwithin the cavity 240 d of the cushioning member 250 and thesubstantially flat region 312 exposed from the cavity 240 d between thebottom surface 254 d of the cushioning member 250 d and the innersurface 214 d of the midsole 220 d. Whereas the top surface 254 c of thecushioning member 250 c of FIGS. 10-12 defines the access opening 242 cto the cavity 240 c, the bottom surface 252 d of the cushioning member250 d defines an access opening 242 d to the cavity 240 d for receivingthe curved region 310 of the plate 300. Thus, bottom surface 252 d ofthe cushioning member 250 d affixes to the inner surface 214 d of theoutsole 210 d in the forefoot and mid-foot portions 12, 14,respectively, while the substantially flat region 312 of the plate 300extending out of the cavity 240 d of the cushioning member 250 d at theaccess opening 242 d formed through the bottom surface 252 d is indirect contact with the inner surface 214 d in the heel portion 16. Insome examples, the aft point 326 of the plate 300 is disposed within ablend portion disposed between and connecting the curved region 310 tothe substantially flat region 312 and the bottom surface 252 d of thecushioning member 250 d tapers upward toward the top surface 254 d at alocation proximate to the blend portion of the plate 300. FIG. 15 alsoshows the outsole 210 d tapering into contact with the plate 300 as thebottom surface 252 d of the cushioning member 250 d tapers toward thetop surface 252 d. For instance, the outsole 210 d tapers into contactwith the substantially flat region 312 of the plate 300 at a locationproximate to where the plate 300 extends through the access opening 242d. Accordingly, the cavity 240 d defined by the cushioning member 250 dis operative to embed/encapsulate at least a portion (e.g., curvedregion 310) of the plate 300 therein. In other words, the curved region310 of the plate supporting the MTP joint of the foot is separated fromthe outsole 210 d and the midsole 220 d by respective portions of thecushioning member 250 d on opposite sides of the cavity 240 d. As withthe cushioning member 250 and plate 300 of FIGS. 1-3, the cushioningmember 250 d and the plate 300 may substantially occupy the entirevolume of space between the bottom surface 222 d of the midsole 220 dand the inner surface 214 d of the outsole 210 d. The insole 260 may bedisposed upon the footbed 224 within the interior void 102 under thefoot. The cushioning member 250 d may define a thickness in the forefootportion 12 of the sole structure 200 d within a range from about seven(7) millimeters (mm) to about twenty (20) mm. In one example, thethickness of the cushioning member 250 d in the forefoot portion 12 isabout twelve (12) mm. In some implementations, the thickness of thecushioning member 250 d between the plate 300 and the bottom surface 222d of the midsole 220 d in the forefoot portion 12 is within a range fromabout three (3) mm to about twenty-eight (28) mm. Additionally oralternatively, the thickness of the cushioning member 250 d between theplate 300 and the inner surface 214 d of the outsole 210 d in theforefoot portion 12 is within a range from about two (2) mm to aboutthirteen (13) mm.

FIGS. 16-18 provide a footwear plate 300 a that may be incorporated intoany one of the articles of footwear 10, 10 a, 10 b, 10 c, 10 d, 10 e, 10f, 10 g, and 10 h of FIGS. 1-15 and 31-39 in place of the footwear plate300. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function ofthe components associated with the footwear plate 300 with respect tothe footwear plate 300 a, like reference numerals are used hereinafterand in the drawings to identify like components while like referencenumerals containing letter extensions are used to identify thosecomponents that have been modified.

FIG. 16 provides a top perspective view of the footwear plate 300 adefining a length that extends between the first end 301 correspondingto a posterior-most point and the second end 302 corresponding to theanterior most point (AMP) of the plate 300 a. The terms “first end” and“posterior-most point” will be used interchangeably herein. The terms“second end” and “AMP” of the plate 300 will be used interchangeablyherein. The footwear plate 300 a may be segmented across the length todefine a toe segment 362, a MTP segment 364, a bridge segment 366, and aheel segment 368. The toe segment 362 corresponds to the toes of thefoot while the MTP segment corresponds to the MTP joint connecting themetatarsal bones with the phalanx bones of the foot. The toe segment 362and the MTP segment 364 of the plate 300 a may correspond to theforefoot portion 12 of the sole structure 200-200 d of FIGS. 1-15. Thebridge segment 366 corresponds with the arch area of the foot andconnects the MTP segment 364 to the heel segment 368. The bridge segment366 may correspond to the mid-foot portion 14 and the heel segment 358may correspond to the heel portion 16 when the plate 300 a isincorporated into the sole structure 200-200 d of FIGS. 1-15. FIG. 16shows the footwear plate 300 a including the curved region 310(including segments 362, 364, 366) and the substantially flat region 312(including segment 368).

FIG. 17 provides a side view of the footwear plate 300 a of FIG. 16showing the MTP point 320 as a closest point of the footwear plate 300 ato a horizontal reference plane RP extending substantially parallel to aground surface (not shown). For instance, the MTP point 320 is tangentto the horizontal reference plane RP and may be disposed directlybeneath the MTP joint of the foot when the foot is received by theinterior void 102 of the footwear 10-10 d. In other configurations, theMTP point 320 is disposed beneath and slightly behind the MTP joint ofthe foot such that anterior curved portion 322 is underneath the MPTjoint of the foot. The anterior curved portion 322 of the curved region310 may define a corresponding radius of curvature and a length L_(A)between the MTP point 320 and the AMP 302, while the posterior curvedportion 324 of the curved region 310 may define a corresponding radiusof curvature and a length L_(P) between the MTP point 320 and the aftpoint 326. As used herein, the L_(A) and L_(P) are each measured alongthe horizontal reference plane RP between the MTP point 320 andrespective ones of the AMP 302 and the aft point 326. In some examples,the L_(A) of the anterior curved portion 322 (including the toe segment362 and the MTP segment 364) accounts for approximately thirty percent(30%) of the length of the sole structure 200-200 d, the L_(P) of theposterior curved portion 324 (including the bridge segment 366) accountsfor approximately thirty percent (30%) of the length of the solestructure 200-200 d, and the substantially flat portion 312 (includingthe heel segment 368) accounts for approximately forty percent (40%) ofthe length of the sole structure 200-200 d. In other examples, the L_(A)of the anterior curved portion 322 is within the range from abouttwenty-five percent (25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) of thelength of the sole structure 200-200 d, the L_(P) of the posteriorcurved portion 324 is within the range from about twenty-five percent(25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) of the length of the solestructure 200-200 d, and the substantially flat region 312 includes theremainder of the length of the sole structure 200-200 d.

The radius of curvature associated with the anterior curved portion 322results in the AMP 302 extending from the MTP point 320 at an angle α1relative to the horizontal reference plane RP. Accordingly, the anteriorcurved portion 322 allows the toe segment 362 of the plate 300 a to biasthe toes of the foot in a direction away from the ground surface. Theangle α1 may include a value within a range from about 12-degrees toabout 35-degrees. In one example, angle α1 includes a valueapproximately equal to 24-degrees. Similarly, the radius of curvatureassociated with the posterior curved portion 324 results in the aftpoint 326 extending from the MTP point 320 at an angle β1 relative tothe horizontal reference plane RP. The angle β1 may include a valuewithin a range from about 12-degrees to about 35-degrees. In oneexample, angle β1 includes a value approximately equal to 24-degrees. Insome configurations, angles α1 and β1 are substantially equal to oneanother such that the radii of curvature are equal to one another andshare the same vertex.

In some implementations, the aft point 326 is disposed along a blendportion 328 along the curved region 310 of the plate 300 that includes aradius of curvature configured to join the curved region 310 at theposterior curved portion 324 to the substantially flat region 312. Thus,the blend portion 328 is disposed between and connecting the constantradius of curvature of the curved region 310 and the substantially flatregion 312. In some examples, the blend portion includes a substantiallyconstant radius of curvature. The blend portion 328 may allow thesubstantially flat region 312 of the plate to extend between the firstend 301 (posterior-most point) and the aft point 326 in a directionsubstantially parallel to the horizontal reference plane RP (as well asthe ground surface). As a result of the radius of curvature of theposterior curved portion 324 and the radius of curvature of the blendportion 328, the aft point 326 may include a position height H₁ abovethe MTP point 320. As used herein, the position height H₁ of the aftpoint 326 corresponds to a separation distance extending in a directionsubstantially perpendicular to the horizontal reference plane RP betweenthe aft point 326 and the reference plane RP. The position height H₁ mayinclude a value within the range from about 3 mm to about 28 mm in someexamples, while in other examples the position height H₁ may include avalue within the range from about 3 mm to about 17 mm. In one example,the position height H₁ is equal to about 17 mm. In some implementations,the posterior-most point 301 and the AMP 302 are co-planer at a junctionof the blend portion 328 and the substantially flat region 312.

FIG. 18 provides a top view of the footwear plate 300 a of FIG. 16showing the toe segment 362, the MTP segment 364, the bridge segment366, and the heel segment 368 defined across the length of the plate 300a. The MTP point 320 may reside within the MTP segment 364 joining thetoe segment 362 to the bridge segment 366. The aft point 326 may bedisposed within the bridge segment 366 at a location proximate to wherethe bridge segment 366 joins with the heel segment 368. For instance,the radius of curvature of the blend portion 328 (FIG. 17) mayseamlessly join the bridge segment 366 associated with the posteriorcurved portion 324 to the heel segment 368 associated with the flatregion 312 of the plate 300.

FIGS. 19-21 provide a footwear plate 300 b that may be incorporated intoany one of the articles of footwear 10, 10 a, 10 b, 10 c, 10 d, 10 e, 10f, 10 g, and 10 h of FIGS. 1-15 and 31-39 in place of the footwear plate300. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function ofthe components associated with the footwear plate 300 with respect tothe footwear plate 300 b, like reference numerals are used hereinafterand in the drawings to identify like components while like referencenumerals containing letter extensions are used to identify thosecomponents that have been modified.

FIG. 19 provides a top perspective view of the footwear plate 300 bdefining a length that extends between the first end 301 and an AMP 302b of the plate 300 b. The plate 300 b may be segmented across the lengthto define the toe segment 362, the MTP segment 364, the bridge segment366, and the heel segment 368. FIG. 19 shows the footwear plate 300 bincluding a curved region 310 b (including segments 362, 364, 366) andthe substantially flat region 312 (including segment 368).

FIG. 20 provides a side view of the footwear plate 300 b of FIG. 19showing an MTP point 320 b of the curved region 310 b of the footwearplate 300 b tangent to the horizontal reference plane RP and disposedunderneath the MTP joint of the foot when the foot is received by theinterior void 102 of the footwear 10-10 d. An anterior curved portion322 b extending between the MTP point 320 b and the AMP 302 b includes aradius of curvature that is smaller than the radius of curvature of theanterior curved portion 322 of FIGS. 16-18. Thus, the radius ofcurvature associated with the anterior curved portion 322 b results inthe AMP 302 b extending from the MTP point 320 b at an angle α2 relativeto the horizontal reference plane RP that is greater than the angle α1associated with the anterior curved portion 322 of FIGS. 16-18.Accordingly, the anterior curved portion 322 b is associated with asteeper slope than that of the anterior curved portion 322 of FIGS.16-18 such that the toe segment 362 of the plate 300 b biases the toesof the foot further away from the ground surface compared to the plate300 a of FIGS. 16-18. In other examples, the L_(A) of the anteriorcurved portion 322 b is within the range from about twenty-five percent(25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) of the length of the solestructure 200-200 d, the L_(P) of the posterior curved portion 324 b iswithin the range from about twenty-five percent (25%) to aboutthirty-five percent (35%) of the length of the sole structure 200-200 d,and the substantially flat region 312 includes the remainder of thelength of the sole structure 200-200 d.

Similarly, a posterior curved portion 324 b extending between the MTPpoint 320 b and an aft point 326 b includes a radius of curvature thatis smaller than the radius of curvature of the posterior curved portion324 of FIGS. 16-18. Thus, the radius of curvature associated with theposterior curved portion 324 b results in the aft point 326 b extendingfrom the MTP point 320 b at an angle β2 relative to the horizontalreference plane RP that is greater than the angle β1 associated with theposterior curved portion 324 of FIGS. 16-18. Accordingly, the posteriorcurved portion 324 b is associated with a steeper slope than that of theposterior curved portion 324 of FIGS. 16-18 such that the bridge segment366 of the plate 300 b biases the MTP joint of the foot toward theground surface further away from the heel of the foot compared to theplate 300 a of FIGS. 16-18. The angle α2 may include a value within arange from about 12-degrees to about 35-degrees. In one example, angleα2 includes a value approximately equal to 24-degrees. Similarly, theradius of curvature associated with the posterior curved portion 324 bresults in the aft point 326 b extending from the MTP point 320 b at anangle β2 relative to the horizontal reference plane RP. The angle β2 mayinclude a value within a range from about 12-degrees to about35-degrees. In one example, angle β1 includes a value approximatelyequal to 24-degrees. In some configurations, angles α2 and β2 aresubstantially equal to one another such that the radii of curvature areequal to one another and share the same vertex.

The curved portions 322 b, 324 b may each include a corresponding radiusof curvature that may be the same or may be different from one another.In some examples, the radius of curvatures differ from one another by atleast two percent (2%). The radius of curvatures for the curved regions322 b, 324 b may range from about 200 millimeters (mm) to about 400 mm.In some configurations, the anterior curved portion 322 b includes aradius of curvature that continues the curvature of the posterior curvedportion 324 b such that the curved portions 322 b, 324 b define the sameradius of curvature and share a same vertex. Additionally oralternatively, the plate may define a radius of curvature that connectsthe posterior curved portion 324 b to the substantially flat region 312of the plate 300 b. As used herein, the term “substantially flat” refersto the flat region 312 within five (5) degrees horizontal, i.e., withinfive (5) degrees parallel to the ground surface.

In some implementations, the aft point 326 is disposed along a blendportion 328 b along the curved region 310 b of the plate 300 b thatincludes a radius of curvature configured to join the curved region 310b at the posterior curved portion 324 b to the substantially flat region312 b. Thus, the blend portion 328 b is disposed between and connectingthe constant radius of curvature of the curved region 310 and thesubstantially flat region 312. In some examples, the blend portionincludes a substantially constant radius of curvature. As with the blendportion 328 of the curved region 310 of FIGS. 16-18, the blend portion328 b may allow the substantially flat region 312 of the plate 300 b toextend between the first end 301 (posterior-most point) and the aftpoint 326 b in a direction substantially parallel to the horizontalreference plane RP (as well as the ground surface). As a result of theradius of curvature of the posterior curved portion 324 b and the radiusof curvature of the blend portion 328 b, the aft point 326 b may includea position height H₂ above the MTP point 320 that is greater than theposition height H₁ of the aft point 326 above the MTP point 320 of FIGS.16-18. The position height H₂ may include a value within the range fromabout 3 mm to about 28 mm in some examples, while in other examples theposition height H₂ may include a value within the range from about 3 mmto about 17 mm. In one example, the position height H₂ is equal to about17 mm. In some implementations, the posterior-most point 301 and the AMP302 b are co-planer at a junction of the blend portion 328 b and thesubstantially flat region 312.

FIG. 21 provides a top view of the footwear plate 300 b of FIG. 19showing the toe segment 362, the MTP segment 364, the bridge segment366, and the heel segment 368 segmented across the length of the plate300 b. The MTP point 320 b may reside within the MTP segment 364 joiningthe toe segment 362 to the bridge segment 366. The aft point 326 b maybe disposed within the bridge segment 366 at a location proximate towhere the bridge segment 366 joins with the heel segment 368. Forinstance, the radius of curvature of the blend portion 328 b (FIG. 20)may seamlessly join the bridge segment 366 associated with the posteriorcurved portion 324 b to the heel segment 368 associated with the flatregion 312 of the plate 300 b.

FIGS. 22-24 provide a footwear plate 300 d that may be incorporated intoany one of the articles of footwear 10, 10 a, 10 b, 10 c, 10 d, 10 e, 10f, 10 g, and 10 h of FIGS. 1-15 and 31-39 in place of the footwear plate300. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function ofthe components associated with the footwear plate 300 with respect tothe footwear plate 300 c, like reference numerals are used hereinafterand in the drawings to identify like components while like referencenumerals containing letter extensions are used to identify thosecomponents that have been modified.

FIG. 22 provides a top perspective view of the footwear plate 300 cdefining a length that extends between the first end 301 and an AMP 302c of the plate 300 c. The plate 300 c may be segmented across the lengthto define the toe segment 362, the MTP segment 364, the bridge segment366, and the heel segment 368. FIG. 22 shows the footwear plate 300 cincluding a curved region 310 c (including segments 362, 364, 366) andthe substantially flat region 312 (including segment 368).

FIG. 23 provides a side view of the footwear plate 300 c of FIG. 22showing the curved region 310 c being semi-circular such that ananterior curved portion 322 c and a posterior curved portion 324 c areassociated with a same radius of curvature R and share a common vertex Vsuch that the curved portions 322 c, 324 c are mirrored about an MTPpoint 320 c. In some configurations, the radius R includes a valuewithin a range from about 86 mm to about 202 mm. In otherconfigurations, the radius R includes a value within a range from about140 mm to about 160 mm. Example values for the radius R may includeabout 87 mm, 117 mm, 151 mm, or 201 mm. The MTP point 320 c is tangentto the horizontal reference plane RP and disposed underneath the MTPjoint of the foot when the foot is received by the interior void 102 ofthe footwear 10-10 d. Accordingly, the MTP point 320 c corresponds to acenter of the curved region 310 c including the curved portions 322 c,324 c. The anterior curved portion 322 c extends between the MTP point320 c and an AMP 302 b while the posterior curved portion 324 c extendsbetween the MTP point 320 c and an aft point 326 c.

The anterior curved portion 322 c may define a length L_(A) between theMTP point 320 c and the AMP 302 c that is substantially equal to alength L_(P) of the posterior curved portion 324 c between the MTP point320 c and the aft point 326 c. As used herein, the L_(A) and L_(P) areeach measured along the horizontal reference plane RP between the MTPpoint 320 c and respective ones of the AMP 302 c and the aft point 326c. In some configurations, the L_(A) and L_(P) are each equal to about81 mm when the footwear plate 300 c is incorporated by an article offootwear 10-10 d associated with a men's size 10. In some examples, theL_(A) of the anterior curved portion 322 c (including the toe segment362 and the MTP segment 364) accounts for approximately thirty percent(30%) of the length of the sole structure 200-200 d, the L_(P) of theposterior curved portion 324 (including the bridge segment 366) accountsfor approximately thirty percent (30%) of the length of the solestructure 200-200 d, and the substantially flat portion 312 (includingthe heel segment 368) accounts for approximately forty percent (40%) ofthe length of the sole structure 200-200 d. In other examples, the L_(A)of the anterior curved portion 322 c is within the range from abouttwenty-five percent (25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) of thelength of the sole structure 200-200 d, the L_(P) of the posteriorcurved portion 324 c is within the range from about twenty-five percent(25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) of the length of the solestructure 200-200 d, and the substantially flat region 312 includes theremainder of the length of the sole structure 200-200 d.

The AMP 302 c extends from the MTP point 320 c at an angle α3 relativeto the horizontal reference plane RP while the aft point 326 c extendsfrom the MTP point 320 c at an angle β3 relative to the horizontalreference plane RP. As the curved portions 322 c, 324 c are associatedwith the same radius of curvature R and share the common vertex V, theangles α3 and β3 are substantially equal to one another. The value ofthe angles α3 and β3 ranges from about 11 degrees to about 35 degrees insome examples and from about 20 degrees to about 25 degrees in otherexamples. Example values for the angles α3 and β3 include about 12degrees, 16 degrees, 22 degrees, or 57 degrees. The angle α3 correspondsto the angle by which the toe segment 362 of the plate 300 c biases thetoes of the foot upward and away from the ground surface when the footis received by the interior void 102 of the footwear 10-10 d.

Moreover, the aft point 326 c and the AMP 302 c may each include a sameposition height H₃ above the MTP point 320 c. As with the plates 300 aand 300 b of FIGS. 16-18 and 19-21, respectively, the position height H₃of the aft point 326 c and the MTP point 320 c corresponds to aseparation distance extending in a direction substantially perpendicularto the horizontal reference plane RP between the MTP point 320 c andrespective ones of the aft point 326 c and the AMP 302 c. In someconfigurations, the position height H₃ includes a value within a rangefrom about 17 mm to about 57 mm. Example values for the position heightH₃ may include about 17 mm, 24 mm, 33 mm, or 57 mm.

In some implementations, the aft point 326 c is disposed along a blendportion 328 c along the curved region 310 c of the plate 300 thatincludes a radius of curvature configured to join the curved region 310c at the posterior curved portion 324 c to the substantially flat region312. Thus, the blend portion 328 c is disposed between and connectingthe constant radius of curvature of the curved region 310 c and thesubstantially flat region 312. In some examples, the blend portionincludes a substantially constant radius of curvature. The blend portion328 c may allow the substantially flat region 312 of the plate 300 c toextend between the first end 301 (posterior-most point) and the aftpoint 326 c in a direction substantially parallel to the horizontalreference plane RP (as well as the ground surface). Accordingly, the AMP302 c and the aft point 326 c may be substantially co-planar with thejunction between the blend portion 328 c and the substantially flatregion 312. As such, the heel segment 368 and a portion of the bridgesegment 366 extending between the first end 301 and the aft point 326 cof the plate 300 c can be substantially flat. The blend portion 328 cmay include a radius of curvature of about 133.5 mm when the footwearplate 300 c is incorporated by an article of footwear 10-10 d associatedwith a men's size 10. In some implementations, the posterior-most point301 and the AMP 302 c are co-planer at a junction of the blend portion328 c and the substantially flat region 312.

FIG. 24 provides a top view of the footwear plate 300 c of FIG. 22showing the toe segment 362, the MTP segment 364, the bridge segment366, and the heel segment 368 segmented across the length of the plate300 c. The MTP point 320 c may reside within the MTP segment 364 joiningthe toe segment 362 to the bridge segment 366. The aft point 326 b maybe disposed within the bridge segment 366 at a location proximate towhere the bridge segment 366 joins with the heel segment 368. Forinstance, the radius of curvature of the blend portion 328 c (FIG. 23)may seamlessly join the bridge segment 366 associated with the posteriorcurved portion 324 c to the heel segment 368 associated with the flatregion 312 of the plate 300 c. In view of the foregoing, the footwearplate 300 c of FIGS. 22-24, the following parameters may be designatedfor a size 10 men's shoe:

1. R=201 mm, α3=12 degrees, H₃=17 mm, L_(A)=81 mm, and radius ofcurvature of blend portion 328 c equal to 134 mm;

2. R=151 mm, α3=16 degrees, H₃=24 mm, L_(A)=81 mm, and radius ofcurvature of blend portion 328 c equal to 134 mm;

3. R=117 mm, α3=22 degrees, H₃=33 mm, L_(A)=81 mm, and radius ofcurvature of blend portion 328 c equal to 134 mm; and

4. R=87 mm, α3=35 degrees, H₃=57 mm, L_(A)=81 mm, and radius ofcurvature of blend portion 328 c equal to 134 mm.

With reference to the footwear plates 300-300 c of FIGS. 1-24, thecurved region 322-322 c allows the overall longitudinal stiffness of theplate 300-300 c to reduce energy loss at the MTP joint of the wearer'sfoot while facilitating rolling of the foot during walking/runningmotions to thereby reduce a lever arm distance and alleviate strain atthe ankle joint of the wearer. The radius of curvature associated withthe anterior curved portion 322-322 c particularly influences thelongitudinal stiffness of the plate 300-300 c as well as how the footwill roll during walking/running motions. In some examples, the plate300-300 c omits the substantially flat region 312 to define a lengthextending between the aft point 326-326 c and the AMP 302-302 c. The MTPpoint 320-320 c corresponds to the closest (e.g., lowest) point of theplate 300-300 c to the ground surface and may located at, or justbehind, the MTP joint of the foot when received by the interior void 102of the footwear 10-10 d on top of the sole structure 200-200 d. One ormore cushioning members 250-250 c, 270 may be incorporated by the solestructure 200-200 d. The cushioning member(s) 250-250 c, 270 may definea greatest thickness over top the MTP point 320-320 c of the footwearplate 300-300 c for maximizing the distance between the MTP joint of thefoot and the MTP point 320-320 c. The cushioning member(s) 250-250 c,270 may include high performance (soft and low energy loss) foammaterials having a resiliency of at least 60-percent when compressedunder an applied load to assist in returning energy during use of thefootwear 10-10 d while performing walking/running movements. Thedifferent geometries of the footwear plates 300-300 c impart differentmechanical advantages to athletes, such as runners having differentrunning styles, e.g., forefoot strikers vs. heel strikers. The radii ofcurvature of the curved portions 322-322 c, 324-324 c produce differentangles α1-α3, such that position heights H-H₃ differ for different shoesizes.

FIG. 25 provides a top view of a footwear plate 300 d that may beincorporated into any one of the articles of footwear 10, 10 a, 10 b, 10c, 10 d, 10 e, 10 f, 10 g, and 10 h of FIGS. 1-15 and 31-39 in place ofthe footwear plate 300. In view of the substantial similarity instructure and function of the components associated with the footwearplate 300 with respect to the footwear plate 300 d, like referencenumerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify likecomponents while like reference numerals containing letter extensionsare used to identify those components that have been modified.

The footwear plate 300 d defines a length that extends between the firstend 301 and the second end 302 and is segmented across the length todefine the toe segment 362, the MTP segment 364, a bridge segment 366 d,and the heel segment 368. The bridge segment 366 d of the plate 300 ddefines a reduced width at a location proximate to the heel segment 368compared to the widths of the bridge segment 366 of the plates 300 a,300 b, 300 c. The narrow bridge segment 366 d reduces the weight of thefootwear plate 300 d while increasing flexibility thereof. The MTPsegment 364 is associated with a widest part of the plate 300 d whilethe toe segment 362 is slightly narrow to support the toes of the foot.

Referring to FIG. 26, a top view of a footwear plate 300 e that may beincorporated into any one of the articles of footwear 10, 10 a, 10 b, 10c, 10 d, 10 e, 10 f, 10 g, and 10 h of FIGS. 1-15 and 31-39 in place ofthe footwear plate 300. In view of the substantial similarity instructure and function of the components associated with the footwearplate 300 with respect to the footwear plate 300 e, like referencenumerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify likecomponents while like reference numerals containing letter extensionsare used to identify those components that have been modified.

FIG. 26 shows the footwear plate 300 e without the heel segment 368associated with the substantially flat region 312. The plate 300 edefines a reduced length extending between a first end 301 e and thesecond end 302 and is segmented across the length to define the toesegment 362, the MTP segment 364, and a truncated bridge segment 366 e.Here, the first end 301 e of the plate 300 e is associated with the aftpoint 326-326 d of the plates 300-300 d.

In some examples, the truncated bridge segment 366 e is associated witha reduced length sufficient for supporting a Tarsometatarsal joint ofthe foot. As such, the plate 300 e may define only the curved region 310including the truncated bridge segment 366 e, the MTP segment 364, andthe toe segment 362. Moreover, the plate 300 e may be formed from onecontiguous sheet of material.

FIG. 27 provides a top view of a footwear plate 300 f that may beincorporated into any one of the articles of footwear 10, 10 a, 10 b, 10c, 10 d, 10 e, 10 f, 10 g, and 10 h of FIGS. 1-15 and 31-39 in place ofthe footwear plate 300. In view of the substantial similarity instructure and function of the components associated with the footwearplate 300 with respect to the footwear plate 300 f, like referencenumerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify likecomponents while like reference numerals containing letter extensionsare used to identify those components that have been modified.

The footwear plate 300 f defines a length extending between the firstend 301 and the second end 302 and through a split forefoot portion 12f, the mid-foot portion 14, and the heel portion 16 thereof. The plate300 f includes the curved region 310 extending through the splitforefoot portion 12 f and the mid-foot portion 14. The plate 300 f mayalso include the substantially flat region 312 extending through theheel portion 16 from the curved region 310 to the first end 301 of theplate 300 f.

The split forefoot portion 12 f of the plate 300 f includes a lateralsegment 371 and a medial segment 372. In some examples, the lateral andmedial segments 371, 372, respectively, extend from the MTP point 320 ofthe plate 300 f Splitting the forefoot portion 12 f into the lateralsegment 371 and the medial segment 372 may provide greater flexibilityof the plate 300 f In some examples, the medial segment 372 is widerthan the lateral segment 371. In one example, the medial segment 372 isassociated with a width suitable for supporting a first MTP bone (e.g.,big toe) and a hallux of the foot. The plate 300 f may be formed fromone contiguous sheet of material.

FIG. 28 provides a top view of a footwear plate 300 g that may beincorporated into any one of the articles of footwear 10, 10 a, 10 b, 10c, 10 d, 10 e, 10 f, 10 g, and 10 h of FIGS. 1-15 and 31-39 in place ofthe footwear plate 300. In view of the substantial similarity instructure and function of the components associated with the footwearplate 300 with respect to the footwear plate 300 g, like referencenumerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify likecomponents while like reference numerals containing letter extensionsare used to identify those components that have been modified.

The footwear plate 300 g defines a length extending between the firstend 301 and the second end 302 and through a finger-shaped forefootportion 12 g, the mid-foot portion 14, and the heel portion 16 thereof.The plate 300 g includes the curved region 310 extending through thefinger-shaped forefoot portion 12 g and the mid-foot portion 14. Theplate 300 g may also include the substantially flat region 312 extendingthrough the heel portion 16 from the curved region 310 to the first end301 of the plate 300 g.

The finger-shaped forefoot portion 12 g of the plate 300 g includes amedial segment 372 g having a lateral curvature 374. In some examples,the medial segment 372 g extends from the MTP point 320 of the plate 300g and is associated with a width suitable for supporting the first MTPbone (e.g., big toe) of the foot. The lateral curvature 374 removes aportion of the plate 300 f that would otherwise support the secondthrough fifth MTP bones. The plate 300 g may be formed from onecontiguous sheet of material.

FIG. 29 provides a top view of a footwear plate 300 h that may beincorporated into any one of the articles of footwear 10, 10 a, 10 b, 10c, 10 d, 10 e, 10 f, 10 g, and 10 h of FIGS. 1-15 and 31-39 in place ofthe footwear plate 300. In view of the substantial similarity instructure and function of the components associated with the footwearplate 300 with respect to the footwear plate 300 h, like referencenumerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify likecomponents while like reference numerals containing letter extensionsare used to identify those components that have been modified.

The footwear plate 300 h defines a length extending between the firstend 301 and the second end 302 and through a halo-shaped forefootportion 12 h, the mid-foot portion 14, and the heel portion 16 thereof.The plate 300 h includes the curved region 310 extending through thehalo-shaped forefoot portion 12 h and the mid-foot portion 14. The plate300 h may also include the substantially flat region 312 extendingthrough the heel portion 16 from the curved region 310 to the first end301 of the plate 300 h.

The halo-shaped forefoot portion 12 h of the plate 300 h includes aninterior cut-out region 380 formed through the forefoot portion 12 h ofthe plate 300 h. The cut-out region 380 is surrounded by a rim 382bounded by an outer periphery of the plate 300 h. In some examples, therim 382 extends from the MTP point 320 of the plate 300 h and isconfigured to support the foot underneath while the interior cut-outregion 380 is associated with an open area to reduce weight of the plate300 h. The plate 300 h may be formed from one contiguous sheet ofmaterial. In some configurations, the plate 300 h is formed by applyinga first tow of fibers on a substrate and forming a void in the first towof fibers associated with the shape of the cut-out region 380 to exposethe substrate. The exposed portion of the substrate may then be removed(e.g., cut-out) to form the cut-out region 380. Additionally, a secondtow of fibers may extend around a perimeter of the void formed by thefirst tow of fibers to provide structural support for the cut-out region380 once the at least one of heat and pressure is applied to form theplate 300 h.

FIG. 30 provides a top view of a footwear plate 300 i that may beincorporated into any one of the articles of footwear 10, 10 a, 10 b, 10c, 10 d, 10 e, 10 f, 10 g, and 10 h of FIGS. 1-15 and 31-39 in place ofthe footwear plate 300. In view of the substantial similarity instructure and function of the components associated with the footwearplate 300 with respect to the footwear plate 300 i, like referencenumerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify likecomponents while like reference numerals containing letter extensionsare used to identify those components that have been modified.

The footwear plate 300 i defines a length extending between the firstend 301 and the second end 302 and through a claw-shaped forefootportion 12 i, the mid-foot portion 14, and the heel portion 16 thereof.The plate 300 i includes the curved region 310 extending through theclaw-shaped forefoot portion 12 i and the mid-foot portion 14. The plate300 i may also include the substantially flat region 312 extendingthrough the heel portion 16 from the curved region 310 to the first end301 of the plate 300 i.

The claw-shaped forefoot portion 12 i of the plate 300 i includes alateral segment 371 i and a medial segment 372 i. In some examples, thelateral and medial segments 371 i, 372 i, respectively, extend from theMTP point 320 of the plate 300 f The segments 371 i, 372 i may cooperateto define an interior cut-out region 380 i similar to the cut-out regionof the plate 300 h of FIG. 29 except an opening 384 separates thesegments 371 i, 372 i to allow the segments 371 i, 372 i to flexindependently from one another. Thus, the claw-shaped forefoot portion12 i provides lateral and medial segments 371 i, 372 i, respectively,capable of flexing independently of one another similar to the segments371, 372 of the split-forefoot portion 12 f of FIG. 27 except interiorcut-out region 380 i provides the plate 300 i with a reduced weightcompared to the weight of the plate 300 f incorporating the splitforefoot portion 12 f. The plate 300 i may be formed from one contiguoussheet of material.

FIGS. 31 and 32 provide an article of footwear 10 e that includes anupper 100 and a sole structure 200 e attached to the upper 100. In viewof the substantial similarity in structure and function of thecomponents associated with the article of footwear 10 with respect tothe article of footwear 10 e, like reference numerals are usedhereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while likereference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identifythose components that have been modified.

The sole structure 200 e may include an outsole 210 e, a cushioningmember 200 e, the footwear plate 300, and a midsole/strobel 220 earranged in a layered configuration. FIG. 32 provides a partialcross-sectional view taken along line 32-32 of FIG. 31 showing thefootwear plate 300 disposed between the cushioning member 250 e and themidsole 220 e in the mid-foot and heel portions 14, 16, respectively,and between the outsole 210 e and the midsole 220 e in the forefootportion 12. The cushioning member 250 e includes a bottom surface 252 eopposing a ground surface 2 and a top surface 254 e disposed on anopposite side of the cushioning member 250 e than the bottom surface 252e and affixed to the plate 300. The outsole 210 e may correspond to oneor more ground-contacting segments that may affix to the bottom surface252 e of the cushioning member 250 e and the plate 300. In someconfigurations, the outsole 210 e is omitted so that the bottom surface252 e of the cushioning member 250 e contacts the ground surface 2 inthe mid-foot and heel portions 14, 16, respectively, of the solestructure 200 e, while the plate 300 contacts the ground surface 2 inthe forefoot portion 12 of the sole structure 200 e, i.e., the curvedregion 310 of the plate 300.

In some implementations, one or more protrusions 800 (e.g., trackspikes) extend away from the plate 300 and the outsole 210 e in adirection toward the ground surface 2 to provide traction therewith. Theprotrusions 800 may attach directly to the plate 300 or the outsole 210e. FIG. 32 shows no cushioning material is disposed above the MTP point320 (e.g., between the plate 300 and the midsole 220 e) or below the MTPpoint 320 (e.g., between the plate 300 and the outsole 210 e).Accordingly, the cushioning material 250 e is provided in the mid-footand heel portions 14, 16, respectively, to attenuate an initial impactof ground-reaction forces during running motions while no cushioningmaterial 250 e is provided in the forefoot portion 12 where cushioningis less essential to reduce the weight of the sole structure 200 e. Theexemplary footwear 10 e incorporating the sole structure 200 e may beassociated with a track shoe for shorter distance track events.Moreover, the insole 260 may be disposed upon the footbed 224 of themidsole 220 e within the interior void 102 underneath the foot.

FIGS. 33 and 34 provide an article of footwear 10 e that includes anupper 100 and a sole structure 200 f attached to the upper 100. In viewof the substantial similarity in structure and function of thecomponents associated with the article of footwear 10 with respect tothe article of footwear 10 f, like reference numerals are usedhereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while likereference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identifythose components that have been modified.

The sole structure 200 f may include an outsole 210 f, a cushioningmember 200 f, the footwear plate 300, and a midsole/strobel 220 farranged in a layered configuration. FIG. 34 provides a partialcross-sectional view taken along line 34-34 of FIG. 33 showing thefootwear plate 300 disposed between the cushioning member 250 f and themidsole 220 f, and the cushioning member 250 f disposed between theplate 300 and the outsole 210 f and/or the ground-surface 2. Thecushioning member 250 f includes a bottom surface 252 f opposing aground surface 2 and a top surface 254 f disposed on an opposite side ofthe cushioning member 250 f than the bottom surface 252 f and affixed tothe plate 300. The outsole 210 f may correspond to one or moreground-contacting segments that may affix to the bottom surface 252 f ofthe cushioning member 250 f In some configurations, the outsole 210 f isomitted so that the bottom surface 252 f of the cushioning member 250 fcontacts the ground surface 2. Moreover, the insole 260 may be disposedupon the footbed 224 of the midsole 220 f within the interior void 102underneath the foot.

The cushioning member 250 f may define a greater thickness in the heelportion 16 of the sole structure 200 f than in the forefoot portion 12.In other words, a gap or distance separating outsole 210 f and themidsole 220 f decreases in a direction along the longitudinal axis L ofthe sole structure 200 from the heel portion 16 toward the forefootportion 12. In some implementations, the top surface 254 f of thecushioning member 250 f is smooth and includes a surface profilecontoured to match the surface profile of the footwear plate 300 suchthat the footwear plate 300 and the cushioning member 250 f mate flushwith one another. The cushioning member 250 f may define a thickness inthe forefoot portion 12 of the sole structure within a range from andincluding eight (8) mm to about and including nine (9) mm. Accordingly,the thickness of the cushioning member 250 f opposing the curved region310 of the plate 300 may be only thick enough to prevent the plate 300from directly contacting the ground surface 2 during running motions.

In some implementations, the one or more protrusions 800 (e.g., trackspikes) extend away from the plate 300 and the outsole 210 f in adirection toward the ground surface 2 to provide traction therewith. Theprotrusions 800 may attach directly to the plate 300, the cushioningmember 250 f, or the outsole 210 f.

FIGS. 35 and 36 provide an article of footwear 10 g that includes anupper and a sole structure 200 g attached to the upper 100. In view ofthe substantial similarity in structure and function of the componentsassociated with the article of footwear 10 with respect to the articleof footwear 10 g, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and inthe drawings to identify like components while like reference numeralscontaining letter extensions are used to identify those components thathave been modified.

FIG. 35 provides a top perspective view of the article of footwear 10 gshowing the sole structure 200 g including an outsole 210 g, acushioning member 250 g, the footwear plate 300, and the midsole/strobel220 arranged in a layered configuration and defining a longitudinal axisL. In some configurations, a peripheral edge of the footwear plate 300is visible from the exterior of the footwear 10 g along the lateral andmedial sides 18, 20, respectively. In these configurations, the footwear10 g may be designed with an intended use for walking.

FIG. 36 provides a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 36-36of FIG. 35 showing the footwear plate 300 disposed between thecushioning member 250 g and the midsole 220, and the cushioning member250 g disposed between the plate 300 and the outsole 210 g. The insole260 may be disposed upon the footbed 224 within the interior void 102under the foot. While not included in the configuration of FIG. 36, thefluid-filled bladder 400 of FIGS. 1-3 could be incorporated by the solestructure 200 g to provide additional cushioning. The outsole 210 gincludes a ground-engaging surface 212 g and an inner surface 214 gdisposed on an opposite side of the outsole 210 g than theground-engaging surface 212 g and opposing a bottom surface 252 g of thecushioning member 250 g. The cushioning member 250 g includes the bottomsurface 252 g and a top surface 254 g disposed on an opposite side ofthe cushioning member 250 g than the bottom surface 252 g.

The configuration of the sole structure 200 g is substantially identicalto the sole structure 200 of FIGS. 1-3 except that the sole structure200 g includes a plurality of apertures 255 formed through the outsole210 g and the cushioning member 250 g to expose portions of the plate300 when viewed from the bottom of the footwear 10 g. FIG. 36 shows theplurality of apertures 255 located in the heel portion 16 and theforefoot portion 12. Other configurations may include more/lessapertures 255 in the heel portion 16 and/or forefoot portion 12 as wellas apertures in the mid-foot portion 14. In some implementations, onlyone of the portions 12, 14, 16 includes apertures 255. Each aperture 255may be formed through the outsole 210 g and the cushioning member 250 gand extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis L. Advantageously, the apertures 255 are operative toreduce the overall weight of the sole structure 200 g to provide alighter article of footwear 10 g. Apertures 255 may similarly be formedthrough any of the sole structures 200-200 f of FIGS. 1-15 and 33-36.

FIGS. 37-39 provide an article of footwear 10 h that includes an upper100 and a sole structure 200 h attached to the upper 100. In view of thesubstantial similarity in structure and function of the componentsassociated with the article of footwear 10 with respect to the articleof footwear 10 h, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and inthe drawings to identify like components while like reference numeralscontaining letter extensions are used to identify those components thathave been modified.

The sole structure 200 h may include the outsole 210, a first cushioningmember 250 h, a plate formed from a fluid-filled bladder 400 h, and amidsole/strobel 220 h arranged in the layered configuration. FIG. 38provides an exploded view of the article of footwear 10 h showing thesole structure 200 h (e.g., the outsole 210 h, the cushioning member 250h, and the midsole 220 h) defining a longitudinal axis L. The outsole210 h includes an inner surface 214 h disposed on an opposite side ofthe outsole 210 than the ground-engaging surface 212. The midsole 220 hincludes a bottom surface 222 h disposed on an opposite side of themidsole 220 h than the footbed 224 and opposing the inner surface 214 hof the outsole 210 h.

The cushioning member 250 h and the fluid-filled bladder 400 h aredisposed between the inner surface 214 h and the bottom surface 222 h toseparate the midsole 220 h from the outsole 210 h. For example, thecushioning member 250 h includes the bottom surface 252 received by theinner surface 214 h of the outsole 210 h and a top surface 254 hdisposed on an opposite side of the cushioning member 250 h than thebottom surface 252 and opposing the midsole 220 h to support the bladder400 h thereon. In some examples, a sidewall 230 h surrounds at least aportion of a perimeter of the cushioning member 250 h and separates thecushioning member 250 h and the midsole 220 h to define a cavity 240 htherebetween. For instance, the sidewall 230 h may define a rim aroundat least a portion of the perimeter of the contoured top surface 254 hof the cushioning member 250 to cradle the foot during use of thefootwear 10 when performing walking or running movements. The rim mayextend around the perimeter of the midsole 220 when the cushioningmember 250 attaches to the midsole 220.

In some configurations, the fluid-filled bladder 400 h is disposed uponthe top surface 254 h of the cushioning member 250 h and underneath themidsole 220 h to reduce energy loss at the MTP joint while enhancingrolling of the foot as the footwear 10 h rolls for engagement with aground surface during a running motion. As with the footwear plate 300of FIGS. 1-3, the fluid-filled bladder 400 h includes a greaterstiffness than the stiffness of the cushioning member 250 h and theoutsole 210 h. The fluid-filled bladder 400 h may define a lengthextending through at least a portion of the length of the sole structure200 h. In some examples, the length of the bladder 400 h extends throughthe forefoot, mid-foot, and heel portions 12, 14, 16 of the solestructure 200 h. In other examples, the length of the bladder 400 hextends through the forefoot portion 12 and the mid-foot portion 14, andis absent from the heel portion 16.

The cushioning member 250 h may compress resiliently between the midsole220 h and the outsole 210 h. The cushioning member 250 h may be formedfrom a slab of polymer foam which may be formed from the same one ormore materials forming the cushioning member 250 of FIGS. 1-3. Forinstance, the cushioning member 250 h may be formed from one or more ofEVA copolymers, polyurethanes, polyethers, olefin block copolymers, PEBAcopolymers, and/or TPUs. The fluid-filled bladder 400 h may also enhancecushioning characteristics of the footwear 10 h in response toground-reaction forces. For example, the bladder 400 h may be filledwith a pressurized fluid such as air, nitrogen, helium, sulfur,hexafluoride, or liquids/gels.

The length of the fluid-filled bladder 400 h may be the same as or lessthan the length of the cushioning member 250 h. The length, width, andthickness of the bladder 400 h may substantially occupy the volume ofspace (e.g., cavity 240 h) between the top surface 254 h of thecushioning member 250 h and the bottom surface 222 h of the midsole 220h and may extend through the forefoot, mid-foot, and heel portions 12,14, 16, respectively, of the sole structure 200 h. In some examples, thebladder 400 h extends through the forefoot portion 12 and the mid-footportion 14 of the sole structure 200 h but is absent from the heelportion 16. In some examples, a sidewall 403 of the bladder 400 h isvisible along the lateral and/or medial sides 18, 20 of the footwear 10h. In some implementations, the top surface 254 h of the cushioningmember 250 h and the bottom surface 222 h of the midsole 220 h aresmooth and include surface profiles contoured to match the surfaceprofiles of the opposing sides of the bladder 400 h such that thebladder 400 h mates flush with cushioning member 250 h and the midsole220 h.

The fluid-filled bladder 400 h defines an interior cavity that receivesthe pressurized fluid while providing a durable sealed barrier forretaining the pressurized fluid therein. The bladder 400 h may includean upper barrier portion 401 that opposes the bottom surface 222 h ofthe midsole 220 h and a lower barrier portion 402 disposed on anopposite side of the bladder 400 h than the upper barrier portion 401and opposing the top surface 254 h of the cushioning member 250 h. Thesidewall 403 extends around the periphery of the bladder 400 h andconnects the upper barrier portion 401 to the lower barrier portion 402.

In some configurations, the interior cavity of the fluid-filled bladder400 h also receives a tether element 500 having an upper plate thatattaches to upper barrier portion 401, a lower plate that attaches tothe lower barrier portion 402, and a plurality of tethers 530 thatextend between the upper and lower plates of the tether element 500.Adhesive bonding or thermobonding may be used to secure the tetherelement 500 to the bladder 400 h. The tether element 500 is operative toprevent the bladder 400 h from expanding outward or otherwise distendingdue to the pressure of the fluid within the internal cavity of thebladder 400 h. Namely, the tether element 500 may limit expansion of thebladder 400 h when under pressure to retain an intended shape ofsurfaces of the barrier portions 401 and 402.

FIG. 39 provides a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 39-39of FIG. 37 showing the fluid-filled bladder 400 h disposed between thecushioning member 250 h and the midsole 220 h, and the cushioning member250 h disposed between the outsole 210 h and the bladder 400 h. Theinsole 260 may be disposed upon the footbed 224 within the interior void102 under the foot. In some configurations, the cushioning member 250 hdefines a greater thickness in the heel portion of the sole structure200 h than in the forefoot portion 12 and the top surface 254 h includesa surface profile contoured to match the surface profile of lowerbarrier portion 402 of the bladder 400 h thereon. The cushioning member250 h may cooperate with the midsole 220 h for to define a space forenclosing the bladder 400 h therebetween.

As with the footwear plates 300-300 i, the bladder 400 h includes acurved region 410 extending through the forefoot portion 12 and themid-foot portion 14 and may optionally include a substantially flatregion 412 extending through the heel portion 16 from an aft point atthe curved region 410 to an AMP of the bladder 400 h disposed proximateto the toe end of the sole structure 200 h. The curved region may have aradius of curvature defining an anterior curved portion 422 and aposterior curved portion 424 similar to respective ones of the anteriorand posterior curved portions 322, 324, respectively, of the footwearplate 300 of FIGS. 1-3. In some configurations, the curved portions 422,424 each include the same radius of curvature that is mirrored about anMTP point 420 associated with the point of the bladder 400 h disposedclosest to the outsole 210 h. In other configurations, the curvedportions 422, 424 are each associated with a different radius ofcurvature. The curved portions 422, 424 may each account for about30-percent (%) of the total length of the bladder 400 h while the lengthof the flat region 412 may account for the remaining 40-percent (%) ofthe length of the bladder 400 h. The anterior curved and posteriorcurved portions 422, 424, respectively, of the curved region 410 providethe bladder 400 with a longitudinal stiffness that reduces energy lossproximate to the MTP joint of the foot, as well as enhances rolling ofthe foot during running motions to thereby reduce a lever arm distanceand alleviate strain on the ankle joint. While the example footwear 10 hof FIGS. 37-39 incorporates the curved fluid-filled bladder 400 h inplace of the footwear plate 300 between the cushioning member 250 h andthe midsole 220 h, the curved fluid-filled bladder 400 h may replace theplate 300 in any of the articles of footwear 10-10 g described above.

The footwear plates 300-300 i described above may be manufactured usingfiber sheets or textiles, including pre-impregnated (i.e., “prepreg”)fiber sheets or textiles. Alternatively or additionally, the footwearplates 300-300 i may be manufactured by strands formed from multiplefilaments of one or more types of fiber (e.g., fiber tows) by affixingthe fiber tows to a substrate or to each other to produce a plate havingthe strands of fibers arranged predominately at predetermined angles orin predetermined positions. When using strands of fibers, the types offibers included in the strand can include synthetic polymer fibers whichcan be melted and re-solidified to consolidate the other fibers presentin the strand and, optionally, other components such as stitching threador a substrate or both. Alternatively or additionally, the fibers of thestrand and, optionally the other components such as stitching thread ora substrate or both, can be consolidated by applying a resin afteraffixing the strands of fibers to the substrate and/or to each other.The above processes are described below.

With reference to FIGS. 40A-40E and 41, the footwear plates 300-300 iare shown as being formed by using a series of stacked, prepreg fibersheets 600 a-600 e. The prepreg fiber sheets 600 a-600 e may be formedfrom the same or different materials. For example, each of the sheets600 a-600 e may be a unidirectional tape or a multi-axial fabric havinga series of fibers 602 that are impregnated with resin. The fibers 602may include at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and other polymeric fibers that form the unidirectional sheet ormulti-axial fabric. The polymeric fibers can compositionally comprise apolyurethane, a polyamide, a polyester, a polyether, a polyurethaneco-polymer, a polyamide co-polymer, a polyester co-polymer, a polyetherco-polymer, and any combination thereof. The polyurethane can be athermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The polymeric fibers cancompositionally comprise polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The polymericfibers can compositionally comprise an aramid. The polymeric fibers cancompositionally comprise poly(p-phenylene-2,6-benzobisoxazole) (PBO).

Fibers such as carbon fibers, aramid fibers, and boron fibers mayprovide a high Young's modulus while glass fibers (e.g., fiberglass) andother polymer fibers (e.g., synthetic fibers such as polyamides otherthan aramid, polyesters, and polyolefins) provide a medium modulus.Alternatively, some of the sheets 600 a-600 e may be a unidirectionaltape while others of the sheets 600 a-600 e are a multi-axial fabric.Further, each of the sheets 600 a-600 e may be include fibers 602 formedfrom the same material or, alternatively, one or more of the sheets 600a-600 e includes fibers 602 formed from a different material than thefibers 602 of the other sheets 600 a-600 e.

During manufacturing of the plates 300-300 i, unidirectional tape ormulti-axial fabric is provided and is cut into fiber plies. The pliesare cut out and angled with respect to one another and the shapes of thevarious sheets 600 a-600 e are cut from the stacked plies into theshapes shown in FIGS. 40A-40E. In so doing, the sheets 600 a-600 einclude fibers 602 formed at different angles relative to one anothersuch that a longitudinal axis of the fibers 602 of the unidirectionaltape or multi-axial fabric is positioned at an angle (Φ) relative to alongitudinal axis (L) of each sheet 600 a-600 e once cut. Accordingly,when the sheets 600 a-600 e are stacked on one another, the longitudinalaxes of the fibers 602 are positioned at different angles relative tothe longitudinal axis of the plate 300-300 i.

In one configuration, the angle (Φ) shown in FIG. 40A is zero degrees(0°), the angle (Φ) shown in FIG. 40B is −15 degrees (−15°), the angle(Φ) shown in FIG. 40C is −30 degrees (−30°), the angle (Φ) shown in FIG.40D is 15 degrees (15°), and the angle (Φ) shown in FIG. 40E is 30degrees (30°). When manufacturing the plates 300-300 i, the plies arestacked such that when the sheets 600 a-600 e are cut from the stackedplies, the sheets 600 a-600 e have the shapes shown in FIGS. 40A-40E andare stacked in the order shown in FIG. 41. Namely, the bottom sheet 600c includes fibers 602 positioned at −30° relative to the longitudinalaxis (L), the next sheet 600 d includes fibers positioned at 15°relative to the longitudinal axis (L), the next two sheets 600 a includefibers positioned at 0° relative to the longitudinal axis (L), the nextsheet 600 b includes fibers positioned at −15° relative to thelongitudinal axis (L), and top and final sheet 600 e includes fibers 602positioned at 30° relative to the longitudinal axis (L). While thebottom sheet 600 c is described as being positioned at an angle (Φ) of−30° relative to the longitudinal axis (L) and the top sheet 600 e isdescribed as being positioned at an angle (Φ) of 30° relative to thelongitudinal axis (L), the bottom sheet 600 c could alternative bepositioned at an angle (Φ) of −15° relative to the longitudinal axis (L)and the top sheet 600 e could alternatively be positioned at an angle(Φ) of 15° relative to the longitudinal axis (L). Further, while two (2)sheets 600 a are described as being provided at an angle (Φ) of 0°relative to the longitudinal axis (L), more than two sheets 600 a at anangle (Φ) of 0° could be provided. For example, eight (8) sheets 600 acould be provided.

Once the plies are stacked and cut into the sheets 600 a-600 e, thestack is subjected to heat and pressure to impart the specific shape ofthe plates 300-300 i to the staked sheets 600 a-600 e, as will bedescribed in detail below. Additionally, when fibers which arepre-impregnated with resin are used, subjecting the stack to heat andpressure can melt or soften the pre-impregnated resin and affix theplies together and hold them in the specific shape. Alternatively oradditionally, a liquid resin can be applied to the plies to affix theplates together and in some cases to consolidate the fibers, therebyincreasing the tensile strength of the plate once the resin hassolidified.

With reference to FIGS. 42A-42E and 43, the footwear plates 300-300 iare shown as being formed by using a process of affixing strands offibers to a substrate. Namely, the footwear plates 300-300 i are formedfrom one or more strands 702 of fibers arranged in selected patterns toimpart anisotropic stiffness and gradient load paths throughout theplates 300-300 i. The strands 702 of fibers may be affixed to the sameor separate substrates 704 and embroidered in a layered configuration.If the strands 702 of fibers are applied to separate substrates 704, theindividual substrates 704 are stacked on top of one another once eachsubstrate 704 is supplied with a strand 702 of fibers. If, on the otherhand, only one substrate 704 is utilized in forming the plate 300-300 i,a first strand 702 of fibers is applied to the substrate 704 withadditional strands 702 of fibers (i.e., layers) being applied on top ofthe first strand 702. Finally, a single, continuous strand 702 of fibersmay be used to form the plate 300-300 i, whereby the strand 702 isinitially applied and affixed to the substrate 704 and is subsequentlylayered on top of itself to form the layered construction shown in FIG.43. While each of the foregoing processes may be used to form the plates300-300 i, the following process will be described as employing a singlesubstrate 704 with individual strands 702 of fiber applied to form theconstruction shown in FIG. 43, whereby individual strands 702 a-702 erespectively form layers 700 a-700 e of a pre-formed plate.

Each strand 702 may refer to a tow of a plurality of fibers, amonofilament, yarn, or polymer pre-impregnated tows. For example, thestrand 702 may include a plurality of carbon fibers and a plurality ofresin fibers that, when activated, solidify and hold the carbon fibersin a desired shape and position relative to one another. As used herein,the term “tow” refers to a bundle (i.e., plurality of filaments (e.g.,fibers) that may be twisted or untwisted and each tow may be designateda size associated with a number of fibers the corresponding towcontains. For instance, a single strand 702 may range in size from about1,000 fibers per bundle to about 48,000 fibers per bundle. As usedherein, the substrate 704 refers to any one of a veil, carrier, orbacker to which at least one strand 702 of fibers is attached. Thesubstrate 704 may be formed from a thermoset polymeric material or athermoplastic polymeric material and can be a textile (e.g., knit,woven, or non-woven), an injection molded article, an organosheet, or athermoformed article. In some configurations, the fibers associated witheach strand 702 include at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers,glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. Fibers such as carbon fibers, aramidfibers, and boron fibers may provide a high Young's modulus while glassfibers (e.g., fiberglass) and polymer fibers (e.g., synthetic fibers)provide a medium modulus.

When forming the plates 300-300 i, a first strand 702 c may be appliedto the substrate 704. Namely, the first strand 702 c may be applieddirectly to the substrate 704 and may be stitched to the substrate 704to hold the first strand 702 c in a desired location. In oneconfiguration, the first strand 702 c is applied to the substrate 704such that the strand 702 c is positioned at an angle (Φ) shown in FIG.42C as being −30 degrees (−30°) relative to a longitudinal axis (L) ofthe substrate 704. Another or second strand 702 d may be applied to thefirst strand 702 c via stitching, for example, and may be formed at anangle (Φ) shown in FIG. 42B as being 15 degrees (−15°) relative to alongitudinal axis (L) of the substrate 704. A third strand 702 a may beapplied to the second strand at an angle (Φ) shown in FIG. 42A as beingzero degrees (0°) relative to a longitudinal axis (L) of the substrate704. A fourth strand 702 b may be applied to the third strand at anangle (Φ) shown in FIG. 42D as being −15 degrees (15°) relative to alongitudinal axis (L) of the substrate 704. A fifth and final strand 702e may be applied to the second strand at an angle (Φ) shown in FIG. 42Eas being 30 degrees (30°) relative to a longitudinal axis (L) of thesubstrate 704. While the first strand 702 c is shown and described asbeing applied at an angle (Φ) shown in FIG. 42C as being −30 degrees(−30°) relative to a longitudinal axis (L) of the substrate 704 and thefifth strand 702 e is shown and described as being applied at an angle(Φ) shown in FIG. 42E as being 30 degrees (30°) relative to alongitudinal axis (L) of the substrate 704, these angles (Φ) couldalternatively be −15 degrees (−15°) and 15 degrees (15°), respectively.

The strands 702 a-702 e form the various layers 700 a-700 e of apre-formed plate 300-300 i. Once the layers 700 a-700 e are formed, thelayers 70 oa-700 e are subjected to heat and pressure to activate theimpregnated resin of the various strands 702 a-702 e and, further, toimpart the specific shape of the plates 300-300 i to the layers 700a-700 e, as will be described in detail below.

As set forth above, the plates 300-300 i formed using the layeredprocess (FIG. 43) include one fewer layer than the plates 300-300 iformed via a prepreg fiber sheet (FIG. 41). Namely, the layered processmay only utilize a single layer 700 a having an angle (Φ) shown in FIG.42A as being zero degrees (0°) relative to a longitudinal axis (L) ofthe substrate 704. While the layered process uses one less layer informing the plates 300-300 i, the resulting plates 300-300 i havesubstantially the same properties (i.e., stiffness, thickness, etc.) asthe plates 300-300 i formed using a prepreg fiber sheet.

With particular reference to FIGS. 44 and 45, formation of a plate300-300 i is described in conjunction with a mold 800. The mold 800includes a first mold half 802 and a second mold half 804. The moldhalves 802, 804 include a mold cavity 806 having the shape of one of thevarious plates 300-300 i to allow the mold 800 to impart the desiredshape of the particular plate 300-300 i to either the stacked sheets 600a-600 e or to the layers 700 a-700 e.

After forming the stacked sheets 600 a-600 e or the layers 700 a-700 e,the sheets 600 a-600 e or layers 700 a-700 e are inserted between themold halves 802, 804 within the mold cavity 806. At this point, the mold800 is closed by moving the mold halves 802, 804 toward one another orby moving one of the mold halves 802, 804 toward the other mold half802, 804. Once closed, the mold 800 applies heat and pressure to thestacked sheets 600 a-600 e or the layers 700 a-700 e disposed within themold cavity 806 to activate the resin associated with the stacked sheets600 a-600 e or the layers 700 a-700 e. The heat and pressure applied tothe stacked sheets 600 a-600 e or the layers 700 a-700 e causes theparticular shape of the mold cavity 806 to be applied to the stackedsheets 600 a-600 e or the layers 700 a-700 e and, once cured, the resinassociated with the stacked sheets 600 a-600 e or the layers 700 a-700 ecauses the stacked sheets 600 a-600 e or the layers 700 a-700 e toharden and retain the desired shape.

It should be noted that while the sheets 600 a-600 e and the layers 700a-700 e are described as including a resin material, the sheets 600a-600 e and the layers 700 a-700 e could additionally be supplied withresin that is infused within the mold 800. The infused resin could be inaddition to the impregnated resin of the sheets 600 a-600 e and layers700 a-700 e or, alternatively, could be used in place of the impregnatedresin. The infused resin may include a thermoplastic material and/or athermoset material. Additionally or alternatively, the infused resin mayinclude other materials to increase the ductility of the footwear plate.

FIG. 46 provides a top view of an example substrate 400 for use informing any of the footwear plates 300-300 i discussed above. Thesubstrate 1400 may be substantially thin, flat, and flexible. Thesubstrate 1400, or at least a portion thereof, may be formed from athermoset polymeric material or a thermoplastic polymeric material. Insome configurations, the substrate 1400 includes a textile that may beknit, woven, or non-woven. The substrate 1400 may also optionally beformed form an injection molded article, a thermoformed article, or anorganosheet. The substrate 1400 may be cut to a desired shape defined bya perimeter edge 1402. In some examples, the substrate 1400 is cutwithin an interior portion to form the cut-out portion 380 of thefootwear plate 300 h of FIG. 29 or the cut-out portion 380 i of thefootwear plate 300 i of FIG. 30.

FIG. 47 provides a top view of a first tow 1300, 1310 of fibers 1350affixed/attached to a top surface 1410 of the substrate 1400 of FIG. 46to form a first layer on the substrate 1400. The first tow 1310 (i.e.,first strand portion) forms a first void 1316 in the forefoot portion 12and a second void 1318 in the heel portion 16 of the substrate 1400. Insome examples, the first tow 1310 of fibers 1350 includes a plurality offirst segments 1312 that each extend between two different locationsalong the substrate to form the first layer thereon and define the voids1316, 1318 to expose the substrate 1400 therein. For instance, a portionof the first segments 1312 may extend between two different locationsalong the peripheral edge 1402 of the substrate 1400 in regions wherethe voids 1316, 1318 are absent. Other portions of the first segments1312 extend between a first location along the peripheral edge 1402 ofthe substrate 1400 to a second location at an interior region of thesubstrate 1400 associated with a boundary of one of the voids 1316,1318. The first segments 1312 may be disposed adjacent and substantiallyparallel to one another. In some examples, the first segments 1312 areapplied to the substrate 1400 at a first angle relative to thelongitudinal axis L of the substrate 1400. The first tow 1310 of fibers1350 may also include first looped portions 1313 disposed proximate tothe peripheral edge 1402 of the substrate 1400 that are operative toconnect adjacent first segments 1312. FIG. 47 shows the first tow 1310of fibers 1350 including curved paths that change directions based onanatomical features of the foot.

In some configurations, the first tow 1310 of fibers 1350 attaches tothe substrate 1400 via first stitching 1314. For example, the firststitching 1314 may zigzag across the first tow 1310 between firstattachment locations located on the substrate 1400. The first stitching1314 may penetrate the substrate 1400 at the first attachment locations.Here, the attachment locations may be spaced apart from the first tow1310 along the perimeter edge 1402 of the substrate 1400 as well asaround the portions of the substrate 1400 exposed within the voids 1316,1318. The first stitching 1314 may be formed from the same material asthe substrate 1400 or the first stitching 1314 may be formed from adifferent material than the material forming the substrate 1400 suchthat the first stitching 1314 is associated with a higher melting pointthan the substrate 1400. Providing the stitching 1314 with a highermelting point than the substrate 1400 allows the stitching 1314 to meltafter the substrate 1400 when heat is applied, thereby enabling thestitching 1314 to retain the first tow 1310 of fibers 1350 when thesubstrate 1400 begins to melt. In some examples, the first stitching1314, or at least a portion thereof, is formed from resin.

FIG. 48 provides a top view of the first tow 1310 of fibers 1350, asecond tow 1320 of fibers 1350, and a third tow 1330 of fibers 1350affixed/attached to the substrate 1400 of FIG. 46 in a layeredconfiguration to form an embroidered preform that may be heated, molded,and cured to form any of the curved and substantially rigid footwearplates 300-300 i. Other configurations may include each tow 1310, 1320,1330 affixed/attached to different substrates 1400 and layered toprovide a stacked substrate 1400. The substrate(s) 1400 and/or tows1310, 1320, 1330 may be trimmed prior to applying at least one of heatand pressure to form the footwear plate 300-300 i.

FIG. 49 provides an exploded view of the embroidered preform of FIG. 48showing each one of the substrate 1400, the first tow 1310, the secondtow 1320, and the third tow 1330 such that each tow 1310, 1320, 1330 isformed from separate corresponding strands/bundles of fibers 1350. Forexample, at least one of the first tow 1310, the second tow 1320, andthe third tow 1330 is formed from a corresponding continuous strand offibers 1350. In other configurations, however, the tows 1310, 1320, 1330may all be formed from the same continuous stand/bundle of fibers 1350.The tows 1310, 1320, 1330 may attach to the top surface 1410 of thesubstrate 1400 without penetrating a bottom surface 1412 disposed on anopposite side of the substrate 1400 than the top surface 1410.

In some examples, the first tow 1310 is associated with a first shapeand the second tow 1320 is associated with a second shape that isdifferent than the first shape. Similarly, the third tow 1330 isassociated with a third shape that may be different than the first andthird shapes. Accordingly, the layers associated with at least two ofthe tows 1310, 1320, 1330 may be anisotropic. Other configurations mayinclude the first shape being approximately the same as the second shapeand/or the third shape. In some implementations, at least two of thetows 1310, 1320, 1330 have approximately the same length. By contrast,other implementations include at least two of the tows 1310, 1320, 1330having different lengths. For instance, the examples of FIGS. 48 and 49show the first tow 1310 of fibers 1350 defining a length that extendsthrough the forefoot, mid-foot, and heel portions 12, 14, 16, the secondtow 1320 of fibers 1350 defining a second length shorter than the firstlength that extends through the forefoot and mid-foot portions 12, 14,and the third tow 1330 of fibers 1350 defining a third length shorterthan the second length that extends within the forefoot and mid-footportions 12, 14 of the substrate 1400. Each tow 1310, 1320, 1330 may bedesigned with an emphasis to provide corresponding performancecharacteristics different from the corresponding performancecharacteristics provided by the other tows 1310, 1320, 1330. Moreover,the layered configuration of the tows 1310, 1320, 1330 may provide avariable thickness throughout the forefoot, mid-foot, and heel portions12, 14, 16 of the substrate 1400.

In some implementations, the second tow 1320 (i.e., second strandportion) is disposed on the first layer (e.g., the first tow 1310) andincludes second segments 1322 that each extend between two differentlocations along the peripheral edge 1402 of the substrate 1400 to form asecond layer on the first layer. The second segments 1322 may beconvergent with the first segments 1312. The first tow 1310 of fibers1350 and the second tow 1320 of fibers 1350 may be formed from the sameor different materials. For instance, the first tow 1310 and/or thesecond tow 1320 may include at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers,glass fibers, and polymeric fibers. In some examples, the second tow1320 of fibers 1350 includes approximately the same number of fibers1350 as the first tow 1310 of fibers 1350. In other examples, the secondtow 1320 of fibers 1350 includes a different number of fibers 1350 thanthe first tow 1310 of fibers 1350. As with the first tow 1310, thesecond tow 1320 of fibers 1350 may include second looped portions 1323disposed proximate to the peripheral edge 1402 of the substrate 1400 forconnecting adjacent second segments 1322. In some configurations, one ormore of the looped portions 1323 extend beyond the peripheral edge 1402of the substrate 1400 and create pinch points when the layeredconfiguration is subjected to pressure (e.g., molding) for consolidatingthe fibers 450 to form the footwear plate 300 when the layeredconfiguration forming the embroidered preform is subjected to pressure(e.g., molding) for consolidating the fibers 1350 to form the footwearplate 300-300 i. Accordingly, FIG. 48 shows the second tow 1320 offibers 1350 cut along the peripheral edge 1402 of the substrate 1400 toremove the looped portions 1323, thereby removing the presence of pinchpoints when applying pressure to form the finished footwear plate300-300 i. Thus, adjacent second segments 1322 may be disconnected atthe peripheral edge of the substrate 1400 once the corresponding loopedportions 1323 are removed (e.g., by cutting).

The second tow 1320 of fibers 1350 may attach to the substrate 1400 viasecond stitching 1324 that may zigzag across the second tow 1320 betweensecond attachment locations located on the substrate 1400. In someexamples, the second stitching 1324 penetrates the substrate 1400 at thesecond attachment locations. Additionally or alternatively, the secondstitching 1324 may extend through the first tow 1310 of fibers 1350. Inother words, the second stitching 1324 may attach the second tow 1320 offibers 1350 to the substrate 1400 by crossing over the second tow 1320of fibers 1350, extending through the first tow 1310 of fibers, andpenetrating the substrate 1400 at the second attachment locations.

In some scenarios, the first stitching 1314 and/or the second stitching1324 are formed from resin. Additionally or alternatively, at least oneof the first stitching 1314 and the second stitching 1324 is formed fromthe same material as the substrate 1400. In some configurations, atleast one of the first stitching 1314 and the second stitching 1324 hasa higher melting point than the substrate 1400. Here, the higher meltingpoint allows the stitching(s) 1314, 1324 to melt after the substrate1400 begins to melt during thermal processing so that the correspondingtows 1310, 1320 are kept in place by the stitching(s) 1314, 1324. Thestitching(s) 1314, 1324 may also include materials that match optionalinfused polymers used for compression molding and/or vacuum molding.

The third tow 1330 (i.e., third strand portion) is disposed on thesecond layer (e.g., the second tow 1320) and includes third segments1332 that each extend between two different locations along theperipheral edge 1402 of the substrate 1400 to form a third layer on thesecond layer. As with the first segments 1312 of the first tow 1310, thesecond segments 1322 and the third segments 1332 of the correspondingsecond and third tows 1320, 1330 may each be disposed adjacent andsubstantially parallel to one another. FIG. 48 shows the second segments1322 of the second tow 1320 of fibers 1350 applied to the substrate at asecond angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the substrate 1400that is different than the first angle associated with the firstsegments 1312 of the first tow 1310 of fibers 1350. While FIG. 48 alsoshows the third segments 1332 of the third tow 1330 applied to thesubstrate 1400 at a third angle relative to the longitudinal axis of thesubstrate 1400 that is different than both the first angle associatedwith the first segments 1312 and the second angle associated with thesecond segments 1322, the third angle may be the same as one of thefirst angle and the second angle but different from the other one of thefirst angle and the second angle. In other words, other configurationsmay include the third tow 1330 having third segments 1332 that isconvergent with only one of the first segments 1312 and the secondsegments 1322.

In some configurations, the third tow 1330 of fibers 1350 attaches tothe substrate 1400 via third stitching 1334 that zigzags across thethird tow 1330 between third attachment locations located on thesubstrate 1400. In some examples, the third stitching 1334 penetratesthe substrate 1400 at the third attachment locations. Additionally oralternatively, the third stitching 1334 may extend through at least oneof the first tow 1310 of fibers 1350 and the second tow 1320 of fibers1350. In other words, the third stitching 1334 may attach the third tow1330 of fibers 1350 to the substrate 1400 by crossing over the third tow1330 of fibers 1350, extending through the first tow 1310 and/or thesecond tow 1320, and penetrating the substrate 1400 at the thirdattachment locations.

Referring to FIG. 50, a close-up view shows a portion of the first tow1300, 1310 of fibers 1350 attached to the substrate 1400 via the firststitching 1314. The first tow 1310 is disposed upon the top surface 1410of the substrate 1400 and the first stitching 1314 crosses (e.g.,zigzags) over the first tow 1310 and penetrates the substrate 1400 atthe first attachment locations 3115 that are spaced apart from the firsttow 1310. The substrate 1400 and the first stitching 1314 may be formedfrom thermoplastic polymer materials that melt during the thermalprocessing. The first stitching 1314 may be formed from a firstthermoplastic polymer material and the substrate 1400 may be formed froma second thermoplastic polymer material having a lower meltingtemperature than the first thermoplastic polymer material. Thus, thefirst stitching 1314 may retain the first tow 1310 of fibers 1350 inplace without melting when the substrate 400 begins to melt duringthermal processing. The fibers 1350 associated with the first tow 1310may include non-polymer fibers 1352 and polymer fibers 1354. Forinstance, the non-polymer fibers 1352 may include carbon fibers, glassfibers, aramid fibers, and/or boron fibers. The polymer fibers 1354, onthe other hand, may include thermoplastic polymer fibers having a highermelting temperature than that of the thermoplastic polymer materialsused to form the substrate 1400 and/or the first stitching 1314.Moreover, the thermoplastic polymer materials used to form the substrate1400 may include a melting temperature that is below a degradationtemperature associated with the non-polymer fibers 1352 (e.g., carbonfibers).

FIG. 51 provides a cross-sectional view taken along line 51-51 of FIG.50 showing the first stitching 1314 attaching the first tow 1310 offibers 1350 to the top surface 1410 of the substrate 1400. The firststitching 1314 may penetrate through the surfaces 1410, 1412 of thesubstrate 1400 and zigzag across the first tow 1310 between the firstattachment locations 1315. The non-polymer fibers 1352 (e.g., carbonfibers) and the polymer fibers 1354 (e.g., thermoplastic polymer fibers)may include circular cross sections that co-mingle with each otherthroughout the length of the first tow 1310.

One or more embroidered preforms formed by the tows 1310, 1320, 1330 offibers 1350 may be incorporated into the series of stacked prepreg fibersheets 600 a-600 e of FIG. 41 or the individual strands 702 a-702 erespectively forming the layers 700 a-700 e of FIG. 43 to tune thestiffness properties imparted by the finished footwear plate 300-300 i.For instance, one or more embroidered preform layers may be provided inaddition to, or replacing, any of the fiber sheets 600 a-600 e stackedin the order shown in FIG. 41 or any of the layers 700 a-700 e of FIG.43.

FIG. 52 provides another tow 1300 a of fibers 1350 attached to thesubstrate 1400 and forming a first layer on the substrate 1400. The tow1300 a of fibers 1350 includes a pattern of segments 1302 that aredisposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another. Whereas thefirst segments 1312 of the first tow 1310 of fibers 1350 of FIGS. 47-49define voids 1316, 1318 exposing the substrate 1400, the segments 1302extend continuously between two different locations along the peripheraledge 1402 of the substrate 1400 to form the first layer covering thesubstrate 400 without defining any voids, i.e., the segments 1302 extendacross the substrate 1400 between the lateral and medial sides. Thesegments 1302 may extend in a direction that converges with thelongitudinal axis of the substrate 1400. Referring to FIG. 53, adetailed view within phantom circle 53 of FIG. 52 shows the tow 1300 aincluding looped portions 1303 disposed proximate to the peripheral edge1402 of the substrate 1400 for connecting adjacent segments 1302.Moreover, the tow 1300 a of fibers 1350 may attach to the substrate 1400via stitching 1304 that may zigzag across the tow 1300 a betweenattachment locations 1305 located on the substrate 1400. In someexample, looped portions 1303 extending beyond the peripheral edge 1402are removed to define the peripheral edge of the plate 300-300 i, aswell as eliminate the presence of pinch points when the preform issubjected to pressure (e.g., molding).

FIGS. 54 and 55 provide exploded (FIG. 54) and side-by-side (FIG. 55)views of an embroidered preform used to form any of the footwear plates300-300 i that be incorporated into any of the articles of footwear10-10 h. The embroidered preform associated with the footwear plate300-300 i includes the substrate 1400, a first tow 1310 a of fibers1350, a second tow 1320 a of fibers 1350, and a third tow 1330 a offibers arranged in a layered configuration. The tows 1310 a, 1320 a,1330 a may be formed from the same continuous strand/bundle of fibers1350 or at least one of the tows 1310 a, 1320 a, 1330 a may be formedfrom a different continuous strand/bundle of fibers 1350. As with thetows 1310, 1320, 1330 of FIGS. 48 and 49, the tows 1310 a, 1320 a, 1330a may attach to the top surface 1410 of the substrate 1400 withoutpenetrating the bottom surface 1412 of the substrate 1400 via stitching1314, 1324, 1334 that crosses over corresponding tows 1310 a, 1320 a,1330 a between attachment locations disposed on the substrate 1400. Thetows 1310 a, 1320 a, 1330 a of fibers 1350 may also similarly include atleast one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymericfibers. In other configurations, the at least a portion of the stitching1314, 1324, 1334 penetrates the bottom surface 1412 of the substrate1400.

The first tow 1310 a of fibers 1350 includes first segments 1312 a thateach extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge1402 of the substrate 1400 to form a first layer on the substrate 1400(e.g., upon the top surface 1410). The first segments 1312 are disposedadjacent and substantially parallel to one another. FIG. 55 shows thefirst segments 1312 a applied to the substrate 1400 at a first angle α₁relative to the longitudinal axis L of the substrate 400.

The second tow 1320 a of fibers 1350 includes second segments 1322 athat each extend between two different locations along the peripheraledge 1402 of the substrate 1400 to form a second layer on the firstlayer. Here, the second segments 1322 a are convergent with the firstsegments 1312 a and disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to oneanother. For instance, the second segments 1322 a may be applied to thefirst layer at a second angle α₂ relative to the longitudinal axis L ofthe substrate 1400 that is different than the first angle α₁. In someexamples, the first layer associated with the first tow 1310 a and thesecond layer associated with the second tow 1320 a are anisotropic toimpart gradient stiffness and gradient load paths throughout the plate300-300 i.

The third tow 1330 a of fibers 1350 includes third segments 1332 a thateach extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge1402 of the substrate 1400 to form a third layer on the second layer.Here, the third segments 1332 a are convergent with the first segments1312 a and the second segments 1322 a and disposed adjacent andsubstantially parallel to one another. For instance, the third segments1332 a may be applied to the second layer at a third angle α₃ relativeto the longitudinal axis L of the substrate 1400 that is different thanthe first angle α₁ and the second angle α₂. Other configurations mayinclude attaching each tow 1310 a, 1320 a, 1330 a to a separatecorresponding substrate and stacking the substrates to form a substratestack such that the first tow 1310 a is disposed between a bottomsubstrate and an intermediate substrate, the second tow 1320 a isdisposed between the intermediate substrate and a top substrate, and thethird tow is disposed upon the top substrate.

FIGS. 56-59 provide an embroidered preform used to form any of thefootwear plates 300-300 i for incorporation into any of the articles offootwear 10-10 h. FIG. 56 provides a top view of the preform including afirst tow 1310 b of fibers 1350 and a second tow 1320 b of fibersdisposed upon the top surface 1410 of the substrate 1400. Stitching mayattach the tows 1310 b, 1320 b to the substrate 1400 at correspondingattachment locations that may penetrate the substrate 1400 through thetop and bottom surfaces 1410, 1412. The first tow 1310 b (i.e., firststrand portion) may define a plurality of first segments 1312 b thateach extend between two different locations along the substrate 1400 toform a layer thereon and define a first void 1316 b in the forefootportion 12 and a second void 1318 b in the heel portion 16 of thesubstrate 1400. The second tow 1320 b is operative as an outerreinforcement area disposed along the perimeter edge 1402 of thesubstrate 1400 such that the fibers 1350 of the second tow 1320 bsurround the first segments 1312 b associated with the first tow 1310 bof fibers 1350. The preform plate may optionally include a third tow1330 b of fibers 1350 that operate as an inner reinforcement areasurrounding the first void 1316 b in the forefoot portion 12. Here, theouter and inner reinforcement areas defined by the second and third tows1320 b, 1330 b may provide additional reinforcement or structuralsupport for the first segments 1312 b of the first tow 1310 b in regionsbetween the first void 1316 b and the perimeter edge 1402 of thesubstrate 1400. The example shows the third tow 1330 b forming a thirdvoid 1336 b that is spaced apart from the second void 318 b bit alignedwith the first void 1316 b to expose the substrate 1400. While not shownin FIG. 56, the preform plate may also include a fourth tow of fibersoperative as a corresponding inner reinforcement area surrounding thesecond void 1318 b in the heel portion 16 in the same manner as thethird tow 1330 b reinforces the first segments 1312 b surrounding thefirst void 1316 b.

Referring to FIG. 57, a cross-sectional view taken along line 57-57 ofFIG. 56 shows the second tow 1320 b of fibers 1350 disposed along theperimeter edge 1402 of the substrate 1400 to provide the outerreinforcement area for the first tow 1310 b of fibers 1350. The tows1310 b, 1320 b may have approximately the same length or may havedifferent lengths. In some implementations, the tows 1310 b, 1320 b areformed from the same materials. For instance, the fibers 1350 associatedwith the tows 1310 b, 1320 b may include at least one of the non-polymerfibers 1352 (e.g., carbon fibers, glass fibers and/or aramid fibers,and/or boron fibers) and the polymer fibers 1354. As set forth above,the polymer fibers 1354 may include thermoplastic polymer fibers havinga higher melting temperature than that of thermoplastic polymermaterials (if any) used to form the substrate 1400. In otherimplementations, the tows 1310 b, 1320 b are formed from differentmaterials.

FIG. 58 provides an alternate cross-sectional view taken along line57-57 of FIG. 56 showing a polymeric material 1520 providing the outerreinforcement area for the first tow 1310 b of fibers 1350. Here, thepolymeric material 1520 may include a single strand of material (i.e.,with a circular cross-section) that replaces the second tow 1320 b offibers 1350 by extending along the perimeter edge 1402 of the substrate1400. The polymeric material 1520 may include a thermoplastic polymericmaterial or a thermoset polymeric material having a higher meltingtemperature than a melting temperature of polymeric materials formingthe substrate 1400 so that the polymeric material 1520 reinforces thefirst tow 1310 b of fibers 1350 along the perimeter edge 1402 of thesubstrate 1400 as the substrate 1400 begins to melt.

FIG. 59 provides another alternate cross-sectional view taken along line57-57 of FIG. 56 showing the first tow 1310 b of fibers 1350 attached toa substrate 1400 a having the top surface 1410 opposing the first tow1310 b and the bottom surface 1412 disposed on an opposite side of thesubstrate 1400 a than the top surface 1410. Whereas the second tow 1320b or the polymeric material 1520 attaches to the substrate 1400 of FIGS.56-58 to provide the outer reinforcement area for the first tow 1310 bof fibers 1350, the substrate 1400 a includes a fold 1414 along aperimeter edge 1402 a to double a thickness of the substrate 1400 a forproviding the outer reinforcement area for the first tow 1310 b offibers 1350.

Referring to FIGS. 60-62, a mold is provided and includes an upper moldportion 82 and a lower mold portion 84 that molds an embroidered preform1300, 1400 including the one or more tows 1300 of fibers 1350 attachedto one or more substrates 1400 to form any of the footwear plates300-300 i. As set forth above, the plate 300-300 i (referring to plate300) may define the curved/concave portion 310 and the substantiallyflat portion 312 for incorporation into any of the articles of footwear10-10 h of FIGS. 1-15 and FIGS. 31-39. Accordingly, the upper moldportion 82 may include a contact surface 86 having a surface profilethat imparts a shape to the embroidered preform 1300, 1400 to providethe curved/concave portion 310 when the embroidered preform iscompressed between the mold portions 82, 84. Likewise, the lower moldportion 84 may include a contact surface 88 having a surface profilethat imparts a shape to the embroidered preform 1300, 1400 to providethe curved/concave portion 310 when the embroidered preform iscompressed between the mold portions 82, 84. In some examples, the lowermold portion 84 is fixed and the upper mold portion 82 translates towardthe lower mold portion 84 to close the mold 80 and thereby compress theembroidered preform 1300, 1400 therebetween. In other examples, thelower mold portion 84 and the upper mold portion 82 may each translatetoward one another or only the lower mold portion 84 may translatetoward the upper mold portion 82.

FIG. 60 shows the mold 80 open and the embroidered preform 1300, 1400positioned between the upper mold portion 82 and the lower mold portion82. The embroidered preform 1300, 1400 may include one or more tows 1300of fibers 1350 attached to the substrate 1400. The substrate 1400 andthe tows 1300 may be substantially flexible. For instance, the tows 1300may attach to the substrate 1400 without penetrating the substrate 1400to form one or more layers upon the top surface 1410 of the substrate1400. For instance, the tows 300 may attach to the substrate 1400 viastitching 1304 that crosses over the tows 1300 and penetrates thesubstrate 1400 at attachment locations 1305 spaced apart from the tows1300 and/or penetrating thru at least one of the tows 1300. In someexamples, the stitching 1304 is formed from resin.

In some configurations, the one or more tows 1300 may include the first,second, and third tows 1310, 1320, 1330 of FIGS. 48 and 49 attached tothe substrate 1400 to form corresponding first, second, and third layersupon the top surface 1410 of the substrate. In these examples, the tows1310, 1320, 1330 may be formed from the same continuous strand of fibers1350 or at least one of the tows 1310 may be formed from a differentstrand of fibers 1350. Accordingly, the one or more tows 1310, 1320,1330 may be formed from the same or different materials, may include theapproximately the same or a different number of fibers 1350, may includeapproximately the same or different lengths, may include theapproximately the same or different thicknesses, and may include atleast one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymericfibers. While FIGS. 48 and 49 depict the tows 1310, 1320, 1330 arrangedin a layered configuration upon a single substrate 1400, otherconfigurations include attaching each tow 1310, 1320, 1330 to acorresponding substrate 1400 to form a substrate stack. In theseconfigurations, the substrate stack may be positioned between the upperand lower mold portions 82, 84 and subjected to heat and pressure (FIG.61) to conform the stack to the shape of at least one of thecorresponding contact surfaces 86, 88 and cured to provide the footwearplate 300-300 i (FIG. 62) having the curved portion 310 and thesubstantially flat portion 312.

In some implementations, the embroidered preform 1300, 1400 is infusedwith a liquid material 1650 that coats/encapsulates exterior portions ofthe at least one tow 1300 and partially penetrates interior portions ofthe at least one tow 1300 to bind the least one tow 1300 to thesubstrate 1400 and/or other tows 1300. In these implementations, theliquid material 650 may include a thermoset material applied to thepreform 1300, 1400 in a molten state. The thermoset material may includeat least one of an epoxy, a polyurethane, a polymerizable composition,and a pre-polymer. Moreover, one or more polymers, such as rubber and/orblock copolymer, may be added to the liquid material 1650 to increaseductility when the liquid material 1650 cures. Additionally oralternatively, a resin material 1652 may be incorporated into the atleast one tow 1300 to assist with binding/affixing the at least one tow1300 to the substrate 1400.

The mold 80 may close by transitioning at least one of the upper moldportion 82 and the lower mold portion 84 toward the other one of theupper mold portion 82 and the lower mold portion 84. FIG. 61 shows themold 80 closed and pressure applied to the embroidered preform 300, 400by subjecting the preform 1300, 1400 to at least one of compressionmolding and vacuum molding while enclosed between the mold portions 82,84. Moreover, the mold 80 may simultaneously apply heat to assist withconforming the embroidered preform 1300, 1400 to the shape of at leastone of the corresponding contact surfaces 86, 88 and curing theembroidered preform 1300, 1400 to provide the footwear plate 300-300 iwith the desired shape and structural rigidity. The upper and/or lowermold portions 82, 84 may include a plurality of conduits configured tochannel a heated liquid, such as water, through the corresponding moldportion(s) 82, 84. Here, the heated liquid raises the overalltemperature of the corresponding mold portion 82, 84 and the preform1300, 1400 conducts the heat from the mold portion(s) 82, 84, therebyraising the temperature of the preform 1300, 1400 to a temperaturesuitable for melting and/or curing one or more materials associatedtherewith. In some implementations, the preform 1300, 1400 is heatedprior to placement within the mold 80.

In some configurations, the substrate 1400 is formed from athermoplastic film that attaches to the at least one tow 1300 via thestitching 1304 which penetrates the substrate 1400 at the attachmentlocations 1305. In examples where more than one substrates 1400 form astack, at least one of the substrates 400 may be formed form thethermoplastic film. At least a portion of the stitching 1304 may beformed from the same material as the substrate 1400. Thus, at least aportion of the stitching 1304 may be formed the same thermoplasticmaterial as the thermoplastic film forming the substrate 1400. In theseconfigurations, applying heat to the embroidered preform 1300, 1400while the mold 80 is closed is operative to thermoform the thermoplasticfilm and the thermoplastic stitching 1304 to join the at least one tow1300 of fibers 1350 to the substrate. Additionally, the closed mold 80may apply pressure to the embroidered preform 1300, 1400. In someconfigurations, the thermoplastic stitching 1304 includes a highermelting point than the thermoplastic film so that the stitching 1305melts after the thermoplastic film, thereby permitting the stitching1304 to hold the at least one tow 1300 in position upon the substrate1400 as the thermoplastic film of the substrate 1400 begins to melt.Additionally, in configurations when the resin material 1652 isincorporated into the at least one tow 1300, the heat and pressureactivates the resin material 1652 to bind the fibers 1350 associatedwith the at least one tow 1300 in addition to the stitching 1304 when atleast the portion of the stitching is formed from resin.

In implementations when the liquid material 1650 (e.g., thermosetmaterial with or without the addition of the ductility increasingpolymers) infuses the at least one tow 1300 of fibers 1350, the closedmold 180 applying at least one of heat and pressure includes subjectingthe embroidered preform to at least one of vacuum molding andcompression molding to cure the liquid material 1650 (e.g., cure thethermoset material) such that the at least one tow 300 binds to thesubstrate 1400 and/or other tows 1300.

Referring to FIG. 62, the mold 80 opens by translating the upper moldportion 82 away from the lower mold portion 84 and/or the lower moldportion 84 away from upper mold portion 82. The liquid material 1650(thermoset material) infused into the tows 300 and/or the thermoplasticmaterial forming the substrate 1400 and/or the stitching are cured toform the footwear plate 300-300 i with the desired shape. Thereafter,the footwear plate 300-300 i may be incorporated into the article offootwear 10-10 h.

The forgoing processes may be used to form footwear plates andcushioning elements that may be used to manufacture custom-madefootwear. For instance, various measurements of the foot may be recordedto determine suitable dimensions of the footwear plate and thecushioning member(s) incorporated into the article of footwear.Additionally, data associated with the gate of the foot may be obtainedto determine if the foot is indicative of toe striking or heel striking.The foot measurements and obtained data may be used to determine optimalangles and radii of curvature of the footwear plate, as well as thethickness of the one or more cushioning members positioned above, below,or encapsulating the footwear plate. Moreover, the length and width ofthe footwear plate may be determined based on the collected data andfoot measurements. In some examples, the foot measurements and collecteddata are used to select the footwear plate and/or cushioning member(s)from a plurality of pre-fabricated footwear plates and/or cushioningmember(s) of various sizes and dimensions that closely match the foot ofthe wearer.

Custom footwear plates may further allow for tailoring of the stiffnessof the plate for a particular wearer of the footwear. For instance, thetendon stiffness and calf muscle strength of an athlete may be measuredto determine a suitable stiffness of the plate for use by the athlete.Here, the stiffness of the footwear plate can vary with the strength ofthe athlete or for the size/condition of the athlete's tendons.Additionally or alternatively, the stiffness of the plate may betailored based on biomechanics and running mechanics of a particularathlete, such as how the angles of the athlete's joints change duringrunning movements. In some examples, force and motion measurements ofthe athlete are obtained before manufacturing a custom plate for theathlete. In other examples, plates are manufactured in particular rangesor increments of stiffness to provide semi-custom footwear such thatindividual athletes may select a suitable stiffness.

In some examples, a method of manufacturing the footwear plate 300includes the steps of providing a plurality of stacked plies (or tows),fusing the plurality of stacked plies to form a monolithic layer, andthermally forming the monolithic layer to form the plate 300. The methodmay also include providing an upper 100 defining an interior void 102and inserting the plate into the interior void 102. The method may alsoinclude providing a midsole 220 extending from a forefoot portion 12 toa heel portion 16, positioning the plate 300 on a superior portion ofthe midsole 220, securing the upper 100 to the midsole 220, and securingan outsole 210 to the midsole 220 to form an article of footwear.

The following Clauses provide exemplary configurations for a plate foran article of footwear described above and methods for manufacturing aplate for an article of footwear.

Clause 1: A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper,the sole structure comprising an outsole and a plate disposed betweenthe outsole and the upper. The plate comprising an anterior-most pointdisposed in a forefoot region of the sole structure, a posterior-mostpoint disposed closer to a heel region of the sole structure than theanterior-most point, and a concave portion extending between theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point and including aconstant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point to ametatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure, the MTP pointopposing the MTP joint of a foot during use. A first cushioning layermay be disposed between the concave portion and the upper. The plate maybe formed by a first tow of fibers forming a first layer, a second towof fibers forming a second layer, and third tow of fibers forming athird layer, whereby the first tow of fibers, the second tow of fibers,and the third tow of fibers are positioned at different angles relativeto a longitudinal axis of the plate over the length of the plate.

Clause 2: The sole structure according to Clause 1, wherein theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point are co-planar.

Clause 3: The sole structure according to Clause 2, wherein the plateincludes a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 4: The sole structure according to Clause 1, wherein the plateincludes a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 5: The sole structure according to Clause 4, further comprising ablend portion disposed between and connecting the concave portion andthe substantially flat portion.

Clause 6: The sole structure according to Clause 5, wherein the blendportion includes a substantially constant curvature.

Clause 7: The sole structure according to Clause 5, wherein the blendportion includes a radius of curvature equal to about 134 millimeters(mm) for a men's size ten (10) article of footwear.

Clause 8: The sole structure according to Clause 5, wherein theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point are co-planar at ajunction of the blend portion and the substantially flat portion.

Clause 9: The sole structure according to any of Clauses 3-8, furthercomprising a second cushioning layer disposed between the substantiallyflat portion and the upper.

Clause 10: The sole structure according to Clause 9, further comprisinga third cushioning layer disposed between the outsole and the plate.

Clause 11: The sole structure according to Clause 10, wherein the thirdcushioning layer is disposed within the heel region.

Clause 12: The sole structure according to Clause 10, wherein the thirdcushioning layer extends from the heel region to the forefoot region.

Clause 13: The sole structure according to Clause 12, wherein the secondcushioning member includes a thickness from about 3.0 millimeters (mm)to about 13.0 mm at a location opposing the MTP point and the thirdcushioning member includes a thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 6.0 mmat the location opposing the MTP point.

Clause 14: The sole structure according to any of Clauses 9-12, whereinat least one of the first cushioning member, the second cushioningmember, and the third cushioning member includes a density from about0.05 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) to about 0.20 g/cm³, a hardnessfrom about eleven (11) Shore A to about fifty (50) Shore A, and anenergy return of at least sixty percent (60%).

Clause 15: The sole structure according to any of Clauses 9-12, furthercomprising at least one fluid-filled chamber disposed between the plateand the upper and/or between the outsole and the plate.

Clause 16: The sole structure according to Clause 15, wherein the atleast one fluid-filled chamber is disposed within at least one of thesecond cushioning layer and the third cushioning layer.

Clause 17: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the MTP point is located approximately thirty percent (30%) ofthe total length of the plate from the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point is located approximately thirty percent (30%) ofthe total length of the plate from the MTP point.

Clause 18: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the MTP point is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) ofthe total length of the plate from the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) of thetotal length of the plate from the anterior-most point.

Clause 19: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the MTP point is located from about twenty-five percent (25%) toabout thirty-five percent (35%) of the total length of the plate fromthe anterior-most point and the posterior-most point is located fromabout twenty-five percent (25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) ofthe total length of the plate from the MTP point.

Clause 20: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein a center of the radius of curvature is located at the MTP point.

Clause 21: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the constant radius of curvature extends from the anterior-mostpoint past the MTP point.

Clause 22: The sole structure according to Clause 1, wherein theconstant radius of curvature extends from the anterior-most point pastthe MTP point at least forty percent (40%) of the total length of theplate from the anterior-most point.

Clause 23: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the outsole includes a ground-contacting surface and an innersurface formed on an opposite side of the outsole than theground-contact surface, the inner surface being directly attached to theplate.

Clause 24: The sole structure according to Clause 23, wherein the innersurface is attached to the plate proximate to the concave portion.

Clause 25: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the plate includes a thickness from about 0.6 millimeters (mm)to about 3.0 mm.

Clause 26: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the plate includes a Young's modulus equal to at least seventy(70) gigapascals (GPa).

Clause 27: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point of theplate each include a position height from the MTP equal from about three(3) millimeters (mm) to about twenty-eight (28) mm.

Clause 28: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point of theplate each include a position height from the MTP equal from aboutseventeen (17) millimeters (mm) to about fifty-seven (57) mm.

Clause 29: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the anterior-most point extends from the MTP point at an anglefrom about twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35) degreesrelative to a horizontal reference plane.

Clause 30: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauseswherein the posterior-most point extends from the MTP point at an anglefrom about twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35) degreesrelative to a horizontal reference plane.

Clause 31: A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper,the sole structure comprising an outsole and a plate disposed betweenthe outsole and the upper. The plate comprising an anterior-most pointdisposed in a forefoot region of the sole structure, a posterior-mostpoint disposed closer to a heel region of the sole structure than theanterior-most point, and a curved portion extending between andconnecting the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point andincluding a constant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point toa metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure, the MTP pointopposing the MTP joint of a foot during use. A first cushioning layermay be disposed between the curved portion and the upper. The plate maybe formed by a first tow of fibers forming a first layer, a second towof fibers forming a second layer, and third tow of fibers forming athird layer, whereby the first tow of fibers, the second tow of fibers,and the third tow of fibers are positioned at different angles relativeto a longitudinal axis of the plate over the length of the plate.

Clause 32: The sole structure according to Clause 31, wherein theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point are co-planar.

Clause 33: The sole structure according to Clause 32, wherein the plateincludes a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 34: The sole structure according to Clause 31, wherein the plateincludes a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 35: The sole structure according to Clause 34, further comprisinga blend portion disposed between and connecting the curved portion andthe substantially flat portion.

Clause 36: The sole structure according to Clause 35, wherein the blendportion includes a substantially constant curvature.

Clause 37: The sole structure according to Clause 24, wherein the blendportion includes a radius of curvature equal to about 134 millimeters(mm) for a men's size ten (10) article of footwear.

Clause 38: The sole structure according to Clause 35, wherein theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point are co-planar at ajunction of the blend portion and the substantially flat portion.

Clause 39: The sole structure according to any of Clauses 33-38, furthercomprising a second cushioning layer disposed between the substantiallyflat portion and the upper.

Clause 40: The sole structure according to Clause 39, further comprisinga third cushioning layer disposed between the outsole and the plate.

Clause 41: The sole structure according to Clause 40, wherein the thirdcushioning layer is disposed within the heel region.

Clause 42: The sole structure according to Clause 40, wherein the thirdcushioning layer extends from the heel region to the forefoot region.

Clause 43: The sole structure according to Clause 42, wherein the secondcushioning member includes a thickness from about 3.0 millimeters (mm)to about 13.0 mm at a location opposing the MTP point and the thirdcushioning member includes a thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 6.0 mmat the location opposing the MTP point.

Clause 44: The sole structure according to any of Clauses 39-43, whereinat least one of the first cushioning member, the second cushioningmember, and the third cushioning member includes a density from about0.05 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) to about 0.20 g/cm³, a hardnessfrom about eleven (11) Shore A to about fifty (50) Shore A, and anenergy return of at least sixty percent (60%).

Clause 45: The sole structure according to any of Clauses 39-42, furthercomprising at least one fluid-filled chamber disposed between the plateand the upper and/or between the outsole and the plate.

Clause 46: The sole structure according to Clause 45, wherein the atleast one fluid-filled chamber is disposed within at least one of thesecond cushioning layer and the third cushioning layer.

Clause 47: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the MTP point is located approximately thirty percent (30%) ofthe total length of the plate from the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point is located approximately thirty percent (30%) ofthe total length of the plate from the MTP point.

Clause 48: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the MTP point is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) ofthe total length of the plate from the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) of thetotal length of the plate from the anterior-most point.

Clause 49: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the MTP point is located from about twenty-five percent (25%) toabout thirty-five percent (35%) of the total length of the plate fromthe anterior-most point and the posterior-most point is located fromabout twenty-five percent (25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) ofthe total length of the plate from the MTP point.

Clause 50: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein a center of the radius of curvature is located at the MTP point.

Clause 51: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the constant radius of curvature extends from the anterior-mostpoint past the MTP point.

Clause 52: The sole structure according to Clause 31, wherein theconstant radius of curvature extends from the anterior-most point pastthe MTP point at least forty percent (40%) of the total length of theplate from the anterior-most point.

Clause 53: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the outsole includes a ground-contacting surface and an innersurface formed on an opposite side of the outsole than theground-contact surface, the inner surface being directly attached to theplate.

Clause 54: The sole structure according to Clause 53, wherein the innersurface is attached to the plate proximate to the curved portion.

Clause 55: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the plate includes a thickness from about 0.6 millimeters (mm)to about 3.0 mm.

Clause 56: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the plate includes a Young's modulus equal to at least seventy(70) gigapascals (GPa).

Clause 57: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point of theplate each include a position height from the MTP equal from about three(3) millimeters (mm) to about twenty-eight (28) mm.

Clause 58: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point of theplate each include a position height from the MTP equal from aboutseventeen (17) millimeters (mm) to about fifty-seven (57) mm.

Clause 59: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the anterior-most point extends from the MTP point at an anglefrom about twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35) degreesrelative to a horizontal reference plane.

Clause 60: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauseswherein the posterior-most point extends from the MTP point at an anglefrom about twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35) degreesrelative to a horizontal reference plane.

Clause 61: A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper,the sole structure comprising an outsole, a plate disposed between theoutsole and the upper. The plate comprising an anterior-most pointdisposed in a forefoot region of the sole structure, a posterior-mostpoint disposed closer to a heel region of the sole structure than theanterior-most point, and a curved portion extending between andconnecting the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point andincluding a circular curvature from the anterior-most point to ametatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure, the MTP pointopposing the MTP joint of a foot during use. A first cushioning layermay be disposed between the curved portion and the upper. The plate maybe formed by a first tow of fibers forming a first layer, a second towof fibers forming a second layer, and third tow of fibers forming athird layer, whereby the first tow of fibers, the second tow of fibers,and the third tow of fibers are positioned at different angles relativeto a longitudinal axis of the plate over the length of the plate.

Clause 62: The sole structure according to Clause 61, wherein theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point are co-planar.

Clause 63: The sole structure according to Clause 62, wherein the plateincludes a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 64: The sole structure according to Clause 61, wherein the plateincludes a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 65: The sole structure according to Clause 64, further comprisinga blend portion disposed between and connecting the curved portion andthe substantially flat portion.

Clause 66: The sole structure according to Clause 65, wherein the blendportion includes a substantially constant curvature.

Clause 67: The sole structure according to Clause 65, wherein the blendportion includes a radius of curvature equal to about 134 millimeters(mm) for a men's size ten (10) article of footwear.

Clause 68: The sole structure according to Clause 65, wherein theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point are co-planar at ajunction of the blend portion and the substantially flat portion.

Clause 69: The sole structure according to any of Clauses 63-68, furthercomprising a second cushioning layer disposed between the substantiallyflat portion and the upper.

Clause 70: The sole structure according to Clause 69, further comprisinga third cushioning layer disposed between the outsole and the plate.

Clause 71: The sole structure according to Clause 70, wherein the thirdcushioning layer is disposed within the heel region.

Clause 72: The sole structure according to Clause 70, wherein the thirdcushioning layer extends from the heel region to the forefoot region.

Clause 73: The sole structure according to Clause 72, wherein the secondcushioning member includes a thickness from about 3.0 millimeters (mm)to about 13.0 mm at a location opposing the MTP point and the thirdcushioning member includes a thickness from about 0.5 mm to about 6.0 mmat the location opposing the MTP point.

Clause 74: The sole structure according to any of Clauses 69-73, whereinat least one of the first cushioning member, the second cushioningmember, and the third cushioning member includes a density from about0.05 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) to about 0.20 g/cm³, a hardnessfrom about eleven (11) Shore A to about fifty (50) Shore A, and anenergy return of at least sixty percent (60%).

Clause 75: The sole structure according to any of Clauses 69-72, furthercomprising at least one fluid-filled chamber disposed between the plateand the upper and/or between the outsole and the plate.

Clause 76: The sole structure according to Clause 75, wherein the atleast one fluid-filled chamber is disposed within at least one of thesecond cushioning layer and the third cushioning layer.

Clause 77: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the MTP point is located approximately thirty percent (30%) ofthe total length of the plate from the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point is located approximately thirty percent (30%) ofthe total length of the plate from the MTP point.

Clause 78: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the MTP point is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) ofthe total length of the plate from the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) of thetotal length of the plate from the anterior-most point.

Clause 79: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the MTP point is located from about twenty-five percent (25%) toabout thirty-five percent (35%) of the total length of the plate fromthe anterior-most point and the posterior-most point is located fromabout twenty-five percent (25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) ofthe total length of the plate from the MTP point.

Clause 80: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein a center of the circular curvature is located at the MTP point.

Clause 81: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the circular curvature extends from the anterior-most point pastthe MTP point.

Clause 82: The sole structure according to Clause 61, wherein thecircular curvature extends from the anterior-most point past the MTPpoint at least forty percent (40%) of the total length of the plate fromthe anterior-most point.

Clause 83: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the outsole includes a ground-contacting surface and an innersurface formed on an opposite side of the outsole than theground-contact surface, the inner surface being directly attached to theplate.

Clause 84: The sole structure according to Clause 83, wherein the innersurface is attached to the plate proximate to the curved portion.

Clause 85: The sole structure according to Clause 83, further comprisinga second cushioning layer disposed on an opposite side of the plate thanthe first cushioning layer, the second cushioning layer forming at leasta portion of the outsole.

Clause 86: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the plate includes a thickness from about 0.6 millimeters (mm)to about 3.0 mm.

Clause 87: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the plate includes a Young's modulus equal to at least seventy(70) gigapascals (GPa).

Clause 88: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point of theplate each include a position height from the MTP equal from about three(3) millimeters (mm) to about twenty-eight (28) mm.

Clause 89: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point of theplate each include a position height from the MTP equal from aboutseventeen (17) millimeters (mm) to about fifty-seven (57) mm.

Clause 90: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauses,wherein the anterior-most point extends from the MTP point at an anglefrom about twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35) degreesrelative to a horizontal reference plane.

Clause 91: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauseswherein the posterior-most point extends from the MTP point at an anglefrom about twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35) degreesrelative to a horizontal reference plane.

Clause 92: A plate for an article of footwear having a sole structure,the plate comprising an anterior-most point disposed in a forefootregion of the sole structure, a posterior-most point disposed closer toa heel region of the sole structure than the anterior-most point, and aconcave portion extending between the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point and including a constant radius of curvature fromthe anterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the solestructure, the MTP point opposing the MTP joint of a foot during use.The plate may be formed by a first tow of fibers forming a first layer,a second tow of fibers forming a second layer, and third tow of fibersforming a third layer, whereby the first tow of fibers, the second towof fibers, and the third tow of fibers are positioned at differentangles relative to a longitudinal axis of the plate over the length ofthe plate.

Clause 93: The plate according to Clause 92, wherein the anterior-mostpoint and the posterior-most point are co-planar.

Clause 94: The plate according to Clause 93, wherein the plate includesa substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region of the solestructure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 95: The plate according to Clause 92, wherein the plate includesa substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region of the solestructure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 96: The plate according to Clause 95, further comprising a blendportion disposed between and connecting the concave portion and thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 97: The plate according to Clause 96, wherein the blend portionincludes a substantially constant curvature.

Clause 98: The plate according to Clause 96, wherein the blend portionincludes a radius of curvature equal to about 134 millimeters (mm) for amen's size ten (10) article of footwear.

Clause 99: The plate according to Clause 96, wherein the anterior-mostpoint and the posterior-most point are co-planar at a junction of theblend portion and the substantially flat portion.

Clause 100: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe MTP point is located approximately thirty percent (30%) of the totallength of the plate from the anterior-most point and the posterior-mostpoint is located approximately thirty percent (30%) of the total lengthof the plate from the MTP point.

Clause 101: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe MTP point is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) of the totallength of the plate from the anterior-most point and the posterior-mostpoint is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) of the total lengthof the plate from the anterior-most point.

Clause 102: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe MTP point is located from about twenty-five percent (25%) to aboutthirty-five percent (35%) of the total length of the plate from theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point is located from abouttwenty-five percent (25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) of thetotal length of the plate from the MTP point.

Clause 103: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereina center of the radius of curvature is located at the MTP point.

Clause 104: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe constant radius of curvature extends from the anterior-most pointpast the MTP point.

Clause 105: The plate according to Clause 104, wherein the constantradius of curvature extends from the anterior-most point past the MTPpoint at least forty percent (40%) of the total length of the plate fromthe anterior-most point.

Clause 106: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe plate includes a thickness from about 0.6 millimeters (mm) to about3.0 mm.

Clause 107: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe plate includes a Young's modulus equal to at least seventy (70)gigapascals (GPa).

Clause 108: The sole structure according to any of the precedingclauses, wherein the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point ofthe plate each include a position height from the MTP equal from aboutthree (3) millimeters (mm) to about twenty-eight (28) mm.

Clause 109: The sole structure according to any of the precedingclauses, wherein the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point ofthe plate each include a position height from the MTP equal from aboutseventeen (17) millimeters (mm) to about fifty-seven (57) mm.

Clause 110: The sole structure according to any of the precedingclauses, wherein the anterior-most point extends from the MTP point atan angle from about twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35)degrees relative to a horizontal reference plane.

Clause 111: The sole structure according to any of the preceding clauseswherein the posterior-most point extends from the MTP point at an anglefrom about twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35) degreesrelative to a horizontal reference plane.

Clause 112: A plate for an article of footwear having a sole structure,the plate comprising an anterior-most point disposed in a forefootregion of the sole structure, a posterior-most point disposed closer toa heel region of the sole structure than the anterior-most point, and acurved portion extending between and connecting the anterior-most pointand the posterior-most point and including a constant radius ofcurvature from the anterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP)point of the sole structure, the MTP point opposing the MTP joint of afoot during use. The plate may be formed by a first tow of fibersforming a first layer, a second tow of fibers forming a second layer,and third tow of fibers forming a third layer, whereby the first tow offibers, the second tow of fibers, and the third tow of fibers arepositioned at different angles relative to a longitudinal axis of theplate over the length of the plate.

Clause 113: The plate according to Clause 112, wherein the anterior-mostpoint and the posterior-most point are co-planar.

Clause 114: The plate according to Clause 113, wherein the plateincludes a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 115: The plate according to Clause 112, wherein the plateincludes a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 116: The plate according to Clause 115, wherein the curvedportion includes a blend portion disposed between and connecting theconstant radius of curvature and the substantially flat portion.

Clause 117: The plate according to Clause 107, wherein the blend portionincludes a substantially constant curvature.

Clause 118: The plate according to Clause 116, wherein the blend portionincludes a radius of curvature equal to about 134 millimeters (mm) for amen's size ten (10) article of footwear.

Clause 119: The plate according to Clause 107, wherein the anterior-mostpoint and the posterior-most point are co-planar at a junction of theblend portion and the substantially flat portion.

Clause 120: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe MTP point is located approximately thirty percent (30%) of the totallength of the plate from the anterior-most point.

Clause 121: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe MTP point is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) of the totallength of the plate from the anterior-most point and the posterior-mostpoint is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) of the total lengthof the plate from the anterior-most point.

Clause 122: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe MTP point is located from about twenty-five percent (25%) to aboutthirty-five percent (35%) of the total length of the plate from theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point is located from abouttwenty-five percent (25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) of thetotal length of the plate from the MTP point.

Clause 123: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereina center of the radius of curvature is located at the MTP point.

Clause 124: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe constant radius of curvature extends from the anterior-most pointpast the MTP point.

Clause 125: The plate according to Clause 124, wherein the constantradius of curvature extends from the anterior-most point past the MTPpoint at least forty percent (40%) of the total length of the plate fromthe anterior-most point.

Clause 126: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe plate includes a thickness from about 0.6 millimeters (mm) to about3.0 mm.

Clause 127: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe plate includes a Young's modulus equal to at least seventy (70)gigapascals (GPa).

Clause 128: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe anterior-most point and the posterior-most point of the plate eachinclude a position height from the MTP equal from about three (3)millimeters (mm) to about twenty-eight (28) mm.

Clause 129: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe anterior-most point and the posterior-most point of the plate eachinclude a position height from the MTP equal from about seventeen (17)millimeters (mm) to about fifty-seven (57) mm.

Clause 130: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe anterior-most point extends from the MTP point at an angle fromabout twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35) degrees relative toa horizontal reference plane.

Clause 131: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses whereinthe posterior-most point extends from the MTP point at an angle fromabout twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35) degrees relative toa horizontal reference plane.

Clause 132: A plate for an article of footwear having a sole structure,the plate comprising an anterior-most point disposed in a forefootregion of the sole structure, a posterior-most point disposed closer toa heel region of the sole structure than the anterior-most point, and acurved portion extending between and connecting the anterior-most pointand the posterior-most point and including a circular curvature from theanterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the solestructure, the MTP point opposing the MTP joint of a foot during use.The plate may be formed by a first tow of fibers forming a first layer,a second tow of fibers forming a second layer, and third tow of fibersforming a third layer, whereby the first tow of fibers, the second towof fibers, and the third tow of fibers are positioned at differentangles relative to a longitudinal axis of the plate over the length ofthe plate.

Clause 133: The plate according to Clause 114, wherein the anterior-mostpoint and the posterior-most point are co-planar.

Clause 134: The plate according to Clause 133, wherein the plateincludes a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 135: The plate according to Clause 114, wherein the plateincludes a substantially flat portion disposed within the heel region ofthe sole structure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 136: The plate according to Clause 133, wherein the curvedportion includes a blend portion disposed between and connecting thecircular curvature and the substantially flat portion.

Clause 137: The plate according to Clause 136, wherein the blend portionincludes a substantially constant curvature.

Clause 138: The plate according to Clause 136, wherein the blend portionincludes a radius of curvature equal to about 134 millimeters (mm) for amen's size ten (10) article of footwear.

Clause 139: The plate according to Clause 136, wherein the anterior-mostpoint and the posterior-most point are co-planar at a junction of theblend portion and the substantially flat portion.

Clause 140: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe MTP point is located approximately thirty percent (30%) of the totallength of the plate from the anterior-most point.

Clause 141: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe MTP point is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) of the totallength of the plate from the anterior-most point and the posterior-mostpoint is located approximately 81 millimeters (mm) of the total lengthof the plate from the anterior-most point.

Clause 142: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe MTP point is located from about twenty-five percent (25%) to aboutthirty-five percent (35%) of the total length of the plate from theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point is located from abouttwenty-five percent (25%) to about thirty-five percent (35%) of thetotal length of the plate from the MTP point.

Clause 143: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereina center of the circular curvature is located at the MTP point.

Clause 144: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe circular curvature extends from the anterior-most point past the MTPpoint.

Clause 145: The plate according to Clause 144, wherein the circularcurvature extends from the anterior-most point past the MTP point atleast forty percent (40%) of the total length of the plate from theanterior-most point.

Clause 146: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe plate includes a thickness from about 0.6 millimeters (mm) to about3.0 mm.

Clause 147: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe plate includes a Young's modulus equal to at least seventy (70)gigapascals (GPa).

Clause 148: The sole structure according to any of the precedingclauses, wherein the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point ofthe plate each include a position height from the MTP equal from aboutthree (3) millimeters (mm) to about twenty-eight (28) mm.

Clause 149: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe anterior-most point and the posterior-most point of the plate eachinclude a position height from the MTP equal from about seventeen (17)millimeters (mm) to about fifty-seven (57) mm.

Clause 150: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses, whereinthe anterior-most point extends from the MTP point at an angle fromabout twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35) degrees relative toa horizontal reference plane.

Clause 151: The plate according to any of the preceding clauses whereinthe posterior-most point extends from the MTP point at an angle fromabout twelve (12) degrees to about thirty-five (35) degrees relative toa horizontal reference plane.

Clause 152: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising: i.a substrate; ii. a first strand portion attached to the substrate andforming a first layer on the substrate, the first strand portionattached to the substrate via first stitching that crosses over thefirst strand portion and penetrates the substrate at first attachmentlocations that are spaced apart from the first strand portion; and iii.a second strand portion disposed on the first layer and forming a secondlayer, the second strand portion attached to the substrate via secondstitching that crosses over the second strand portion, extends throughthe first strand portion, and penetrates the substrate at secondattachment locations. The plate including an anterior-most pointdisposed in a forefoot region of the article of footwear, aposterior-most point disposed closer to a heel region of the article offootwear than the anterior-most point, and a concave portion extendingbetween the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point andincluding a constant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point toa metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the article of footwear, the MTPpoint opposing the MTP joint of a foot during use.

Clause 153: The plate of Clause 152, wherein the first strand portion isdisposed between the second attachment locations and the second strandportion.

Clause 154: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are portions of the same,continuous strand.

Clause 155: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are formed from the samematerial.

Clause 156: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are formed from differentmaterials.

Clause 157: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 158: The plate of Clause 157, wherein the first tow of fibersincludes at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 159: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein thesecond strand portion is formed from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 160: The plate of Clause 159, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 161: The plate of Clause 160, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow offibers.

Clause 162: The plate of Clause 160, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 163: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion have different lengths.

Clause 164: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion have approximately the samelength.

Clause 165: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion forms a first void in the first layer.

Clause 166: The plate of Clause 165, wherein the substrate is exposedwithin the first void.

Clause 167: The plate of Clause 165, wherein the second strand portionforms a second void in the second layer.

Clause 168: The plate of Clause 167, wherein the second void is alignedwith the first void to expose the substrate at the second layer.

Clause 169: The plate of Clause 167, wherein the second void is spacedapart from the first void.

Clause 170: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion is applied to the substrate in a first shape and thesecond strand portion is applied to the first layer in a second shape.

Clause 171: The plate of Clause 170, wherein the first shape isapproximately the same as the second shape.

Clause 172: The plate of Clause 170, wherein the first shape isdifferent than the second shape.

Clause 173: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leastone of the first stitching and the second stitching is formed fromresin.

Clause 174: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leastone of the first stitching and the second stitching is formed from thesame material as the substrate.

Clause 175: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leastone of the first stitching and the second stitching has a higher meltingpoint than the substrate.

Clause 176: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststitching zigzags across the first strand portion between the firstattachment locations.

Clause 177: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein thesecond stitching zigzags across the second strand portion between thesecond attachment locations.

Clause 178: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising: i.a substrate defining a peripheral edge; ii. a first strand portionattached to the substrate and including first segments that each extendbetween two different locations along the peripheral edge of thesubstrate to form a first layer on the substrate, the first segmentsbeing disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another; andiii. a second strand portion disposed on the first layer and includingsecond segments that each extend between two different locations alongthe peripheral edge of the substrate to form a second layer on the firstlayer, the second segments being convergent with the first segments anddisposed adjacent and substantially parallel to one another. The plateincluding an anterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region of thearticle of footwear, a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heelregion of the article of footwear than the anterior-most point, and aconcave portion extending between the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point and including a constant radius of curvature fromthe anterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of thearticle of footwear, the MTP point opposing the MTP joint of a footduring use.

Clause 179: The plate of Clause 178, wherein at least one of the firststrand portion and the second strand portion is a continuous strand.

Clause 180: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are portions of the same,continuous strand.

Clause 181: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are formed from the samematerial.

Clause 182: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are formed from differentmaterials.

Clause 183: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 184: The plate of Clause 183, wherein the first tow of fibersincludes at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 185: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein thesecond strand portion is formed from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 186: The plate of Clause 185, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 187: The plate of Clause 186, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow offibers.

Clause 188: The plate of Clause 186, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 189: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion includes first looped portions disposed proximate to theperipheral edge of the substrate, the first looped portions connectingadjacent first segments.

Clause 190: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein thesecond strand portion includes second looped portions disposed proximateto the peripheral edge of the substrate, the second looped portionsconnecting adjacent second segments.

Clause 191: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion forms a first void in the first layer.

Clause 192: The plate of Clause 191, wherein the substrate is exposedwithin the first void.

Clause 193: The plate of Clause 191, wherein the second strand portionforms a second void in the second layer.

Clause 194: The plate of Clause 193, wherein the second void is alignedwith the first void to expose the substrate at the second layer.

Clause 195: The plate of Clause 193, wherein the second void is spacedapart from the first void.

Clause 196: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firstsegments are applied to the substrate at a first angle relative to alongitudinal axis of the substrate and the second segments are appliedto the first layer at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axisof the substrate that is different than the first angle.

Clause 197: The plate of Clause 196, further comprising a third strandportion disposed on the second layer and including third segments thateach extend between two different locations along the peripheral edge ofthe substrate to form a third layer on the second layer, the thirdsegments being convergent with the first segments and the secondsegments and disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to oneanother.

Clause 198: The plate of Clause 197, wherein the third segments areapplied to the second layer at a third angle relative to thelongitudinal axis of the substrate that is different than the firstangle and the second angle.

Clause 199: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion is attached to the substrate via first stitching and thesecond strand portion is attached to the substrate via second stitching.

Clause 200: The plate of Clause 199, wherein at least one of the firststitching and the second stitching is formed from the same material asthe substrate.

Clause 201: The plate of Clause 200, wherein at least one of the firststitching and the second stitching has a higher melting point than thesubstrate.

Clause 202: The plate of Clause 199, wherein at least one of the firststitching and the second stitching is formed from resin.

Clause 203: The plate of Clause 199, wherein the first stitching zigzagsacross the first strand portion and penetrates the substrate at firstattachment locations.

Clause 204: The plate of Clause 203, wherein the first attachmentlocations are spaced apart from the first strand portion.

Clause 205: The plate of Clause 203, wherein the second stitchingzigzags across the second strand portion and penetrates the substrate atsecond attachment locations.

Clause 206: The plate of Clause 205, wherein the first strand portionsare disposed between the second layer and the second attachmentlocations.

Clause 207: The plate of Clause 205, wherein the second stitchingextends though the first strand portion.

Clause 208: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firstlayer and the second layer are anisotropic.

Clause 209: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising: i.a substrate; and ii. a first strand portion attached to the substrateand forming a first layer on the substrate, the first strand portionforming a first void in the first layer to expose the substrate withinthe first void. The plate including an anterior-most point disposed in aforefoot region of the article of footwear, a posterior-most pointdisposed closer to a heel region of the article of footwear than theanterior-most point, and a concave portion extending between theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point and including aconstant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point to ametatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the article of footwear, the MTPpoint opposing the MTP joint of a foot during use.

Clause 210: The plate of Clause 209, further comprising a second strandportion disposed on the first layer and forming a second layer.

Clause 211: The plate of Clause 210, wherein the first strand portionand the second strand portion are portions of the same, continuousstrand.

Clause 212: The plate of Clause 210, wherein the first strand portionand the second strand portion are formed from the same material.

Clause 213: The plate of Clause 210, wherein the first strand portionand the second strand portion are formed from different materials.

Clause 214: The plate of any of Clause 210, wherein the first strandportion and the second strand portion have different lengths.

Clause 215: The plate of Clause 210, wherein the first strand portionand the second strand portion have approximately the same length.

Clause 216: The plate of Clause 210, wherein the second strand portionforms a second void in the second layer.

Clause 217: The plate of Clause 216, wherein the second void is alignedwith the first void to expose the substrate at the second layer.

Clause 218: The plate of Clause 216, wherein the second void is spacedapart from the first void.

Clause 219: The plate of Clause 210, wherein the first strand portion isapplied to the substrate in a first shape and the second strand portionis applied to the first layer in a second shape.

Clause 220: The plate of Clause 219, wherein the first shape isapproximately the same as the second shape.

Clause 221: The plate of Clause 219, wherein the first shape isdifferent than the second shape.

Clause 222: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion is attached to the substrate by stitching.

Clause 223: The plate of Clause 222, wherein the stitching is formedfrom resin.

Clause 224: The plate of Clause 222, wherein the stitching is formedfrom the same material as the substrate.

Clause 225: The plate of Clause 222, wherein the stitching has a highermelting point than the substrate.

Clause 226: The plate of any of Clause 222, wherein the stitchingzigzags across the first strand portion between attachment locationslocated on the substrate.

Clause 227: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 228: The plate of Clause 227, wherein the first tow of fibersincludes at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 229: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising a second strand portion disposed on the first layer andforming a second layer, the second strand portion being formed from asecond tow of fibers.

Clause 230: The plate of Clause 229, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 231: The plate of Clause 229, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow offibers.

Clause 232: The plate of Clause 229, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 233: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising: i.a substrate defining a first region and a second region; ii. a firststrand portion attached to and opposing the substrate in one of thefirst region and the second region and including a first patternproviding the one of the first region and the second region with firstperformance characteristics; and iii. a second strand portion attachedto and opposing the substrate in the other of the first region and thesecond region and including a second pattern different than the firstpattern and providing the other of the first region and the secondregion with second performance characteristics different than the firstperformance characteristics. The plate including an anterior-most pointdisposed in a forefoot region of the article of footwear, aposterior-most point disposed closer to a heel region of the article offootwear than the anterior-most point, and a concave portion extendingbetween the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point andincluding a constant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point toa metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the article of footwear, the MTPpoint opposing the MTP joint of a foot during use.

Clause 234: The plate of Clause 233, wherein the first strand portionforms a first edge to define a shape of the one of the first region andthe second region.

Clause 235: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein thesecond strand portion forms a second edge to define a shape of the otherof the first region and the second region.

Clause 236: The plate of Clause 235, wherein the first edge is spacedapart and separated from the second edge.

Clause 237: The plate of Clause 235, wherein the first edge abuts thesecond edge.

Clause 238: The plate of and of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are portions of the same,continuous strand.

Clause 239: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are formed from the samematerial.

Clause 240: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are formed from differentmaterials.

Clause 241: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 242: The plate of Clause 241, wherein the first tow of fibersincludes at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 243: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein thesecond strand portion is formed from a second tow of fibers.

Clause 244: The plate of Clause 233, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 245: The plate of Clause 244, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow offibers.

Clause 246: The plate of Clause 244, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 247: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion have different lengths.

Clause 248: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion have approximately the samelength.

Clause 249: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leastone of the first strand portion and the second strand portion forms avoid in at least one of the first region and the second region.

Clause 250: The plate of Clause 249, wherein the substrate is exposedwithin the void.

Clause 251: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion have different thicknesses.

Clause 252: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion have approximately the samethickness.

Clause 253: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firstregion and the second region have different thicknesses.

Clause 254: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firstregion and the second region have approximately the same thickness.

Clause 255: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein one ofthe first region and the second region is located in one of a forefootportion, a midfoot portion, and a heel portion of the article offootwear and the other of the first region and the second region islocated in another of the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion, and theheel portion of the article of footwear.

Clause 256: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion is attached to the substrate via first stitching and thesecond strand portion is attached to the substrate via second stitching.

Clause 257: The plate of Clause 256, wherein at least one of the firststitching and the second stitching is formed from resin.

Clause 258: The plate of any of Clause 256, wherein at least one of thefirst stitching and the second stitching is formed from the samematerial as the substrate.

Clause 259: The plate of any of Clause 256, wherein at least one of thefirst stitching and the second stitching has a higher melting point thanthe substrate.

Clause 260: The plate of any of Clause 256, wherein the first stitchingzigzags across the first strand portion and penetrates the substrate atfirst attachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strandportion.

Clause 261: The plate of Clause 260, wherein the second stitchingzigzags across the second strand portion and penetrates the substrate atsecond attachment locations that are spaced apart from the second strandportion.

Clause 262: The plate of Clause 256, wherein the second stitchingzigzags across the second strand portion and penetrates the substrate atsecond attachment locations that are spaced apart from the second strandportion.

Clause 263: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising: asubstrate having a forefoot region and a heel region; and ii. a firststrand portion attached to the substrate and including a plurality ofsegments that extend between a first end disposed in the forefoot regionand a second end disposed in the heel region, the plurality of segmentscrossing one another in a midfoot region disposed between the forefootregion and the heel region. The plate including an anterior-most pointdisposed in the forefoot region of the article of footwear, aposterior-most point disposed closer to the heel region of the articleof footwear than the anterior-most point, and a concave portionextending between the anterior-most point and the posterior-most pointand including a constant radius of curvature from the anterior-mostpoint to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the article of footwear,the MTP point opposing the MTP joint of a foot during use.

Clause 264: The plate of Clause 263, wherein the first strand portion isformed from a continuous strand.

Clause 265: The plate of Clause 264, wherein the first strand portionincludes first looped portions joining respective first ends of theplurality of segments and second looped portions joining respectivesecond ends of the plurality of segments, the plurality of segments, thefirst looped portions, and the second looped portions cooperating toprovide the first strand portion with a continuous construction.

Clause 266: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion extends onto an upper of the article of footwear.

Clause 267: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising tensile strands extending between and connecting the firststrand portion to an upper of the article of footwear.

Clause 268: The plate of Clause 267, wherein the tensile strands areattached to the first strand portion along at least one of the pluralityof segments between the first end and the second end of the at least oneof the plurality of segments.

Clause 269: The plate of Clause 268, further comprising a lace operableto move the upper between a tightened state and a relaxed state, thetensile strands extending between and joining the lace and the at leastone of the plurality of segments.

Clause 270: The plate of Clause 263, wherein the substrate includescleat members extending from a surface thereof.

Clause 271: The plate of Clause 270, wherein the first strand portion isattached to the surface of the substrate and extends around a portion ofthe cleat members.

Clause 272: The plate of Clause 270, wherein the first strand portion isattached to the surface of the substrate and surrounds at least one ofthe cleat members.

Clause 273: The plate of Clause 270, wherein the first strand portion isattached to the surface of the substrate and at least one of theplurality of segments surrounds at least one of the cleat members.

Clause 274: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein theplurality of segments are woven together at the midfoot region.

Clause 275: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 276: The plate of Clause 275, wherein the first tow of fibersincludes at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 277: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion forms at least one void between at least two of thesegments.

Clause 278: The plate of Clause 277, wherein the substrate is exposedwithin the at least one void.

Clause 279: The plate of Clause 277, wherein a first bundle of theplurality of segments and a second bundle of the plurality of segmentscooperate to define the at least one void.

Clause 280: The plate of Clause 277, wherein the at least one void isdisposed between the first bundle and the second bundle.

Clause 281: A method of forming a plate for an article of footwear, themethod comprising: stitching a first strand portion to a substrate toform a first layer on the substrate including applying first stitchingthat crosses over the first strand portion and penetrates the substrateat first attachment locations that are spaced apart from the firststrand portion; and stitching a second strand portion on the first layerto form a second layer including applying second stitching that crossesover the second strand portion, extends through the first strandportion, and penetrates the substrate at second attachment locations.The plate including an anterior-most point disposed in a forefoot regionof the article of footwear, a posterior-most point disposed closer to aheel region of the article of footwear than the anterior-most point, anda concave portion extending between the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point and including a constant radius of curvature fromthe anterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of thearticle of footwear, the MTP point opposing the MTP joint of a footduring use.

Clause 282: The method of Clause 281, wherein stitching the secondstrand portion on the first layer includes positioning the first strandportion between the second attachment locations and the second strandportion.

Clause 283: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 284: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion from the same material.

Clause 285: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion from different materials.

Clause 286: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 287: The method of Clause 286, wherein forming the first strandportion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 288: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow offibers.

Clause 289: The method of Clause 288, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 290: The method of Clause 289, wherein forming the second strandfrom the second tow of fibers includes providing approximately the samenumber of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 291: The method of Clause 289, wherein forming the second strandfrom the second tow of fibers includes providing a different number offibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 292: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with different lengths.

Clause 293: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with approximately the same length.

Clause 294: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinstitching the first strand portion to the substrate includes forming afirst void in the first layer.

Clause 295: The method of Clause 294, further comprising exposing thesubstrate within the first void.

Clause 296: The method of Clause 294, wherein stitching the secondstrand portion on the first layer includes forming a second void in thesecond layer.

Clause 297: The method of Clause 296, wherein forming the second voidincludes aligning the second void with the first void to expose thesubstrate at the second layer.

Clause 298: The method of Clause 296, wherein forming the second voidincludes spacing apart the second void from the first void.

Clause 299: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinstitching the first strand portion to the substrate includes applyingthe first strand portion to the substrate in a first shape and stitchingthe second strand portion on the first layer includes applying thesecond strand portion to the first layer in a second shape.

Clause 300: The method of Clause 299, wherein applying the first strandportion in the first shape and applying the second strand portion in thesecond shape includes applying the first strand portion and the secondstrand portion in approximately the same shape.

Clause 301: The method of Clause 299, wherein applying the first strandportion in the first shape and applying the second strand portion in thesecond shape includes applying the first strand portion and the secondstrand portion in different shapes.

Clause 302: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leastone of applying the first stitching and applying the second stitchingincludes applying stitching formed from resin.

Clause 303: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leastone of applying the first stitching and applying the second stitchingincludes applying stitching that is formed from the same material as thesubstrate.

Clause 304: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leastone of applying the first stitching and applying the second stitchingincludes applying stitching that has a higher melting point than thesubstrate.

Clause 305: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applyingthe first stitching includes zigzagging the first stitching across thefirst strand portion between first attachment locations.

Clause 306: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applyingthe second stitching includes zigzagging the second stitching across thesecond strand portion between the second attachment locations.

Clause 307: The method of Clause 281, further comprising applying atleast one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion and thesecond strand portion to bind the first strand portion to both thesubstrate and the second strand portion.

Clause 308: The method of Clause 307, wherein applying at least one ofheat and pressure includes forming the substrate, the first strandportion, and the second strand portion into a desired shape.

Clause 309: A method of forming a plate for an article of footwear, themethod comprising: attaching a first strand portion to a substrateincluding positioning first segments of the first strand portion on thesubstrate with each first segment extending between two differentlocations along a peripheral edge of the substrate to form a first layeron the substrate, the first segments being disposed adjacent andsubstantially parallel to one another; and positioning a second strandportion on the first layer including positioning second segments of thesecond strand portion on the first layer with each second segmentextending between two different locations along the peripheral edge ofthe substrate to form a second layer on the first layer, the secondsegments being convergent with the first segments and disposed adjacentand substantially parallel to one another. The plate including ananterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region of the article offootwear, a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heel region of thearticle of footwear than the anterior-most point, and a concave portionextending between the anterior-most point and the posterior-most pointand including a constant radius of curvature from the anterior-mostpoint to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the article of footwear,the MTP point opposing the MTP joint of a foot during use.

Clause 310: The method of Clause 309, wherein at least one of attachingthe first strand portion to the substrate and positioning the secondstrand portion on the first layer includes positioning a continuousstrand.

Clause 311: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinattaching the first strand portion to the substrate and positioning thesecond strand portion on the first layer includes positioning a single,continuous strand.

Clause 312: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion from the same material.

Clause 313: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion from different materials.

Clause 314: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 315: The method of Clause 314, wherein forming the first strandportion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 316: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow offibers.

Clause 317: The method of Clause 316, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 318: The method of Clause 317, wherein forming the second strandfrom the second tow of fibers includes providing approximately the samenumber of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 319: The method of Clause 317, wherein forming the second strandfrom the second tow of fibers includes providing a different number offibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 320: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion with first looped portionsdisposed proximate to the peripheral edge of the substrate, the firstlooped portions connecting adjacent first segments.

Clause 321: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the second strand portion with second loopedportions disposed proximate to the peripheral edge of the substrate, thesecond looped portions connecting adjacent second segments.

Clause 322: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinattaching the first strand portion to the substrate includes forming afirst void in the first layer.

Clause 323: The method of Clause 322, further comprising exposing thesubstrate within the first void.

Clause 324: The method of Clause 322, wherein positioning the secondstrand portion on the first layer includes forming a second void in thesecond layer.

Clause 325: The method of Clause 324, wherein forming the second voidincludes aligning the second void with the first void to expose thesubstrate at the second layer.

Clause 326: The method of Clause 324, wherein forming the second voidincludes spacing apart the second void from the first void.

Clause 327: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinpositioning the first segments of the first strand portion on thesubstrate includes applying the first segments at a first angle relativeto a longitudinal axis of the substrate and positioning the secondsegments of the second strand portion on the first layer includesapplying the second segments at a second angle relative to thelongitudinal axis of the substrate that is different than the firstangle.

Clause 328: The method of Clause 327, further comprising positioning athird strand portion on the second layer including positioning thirdsegments of the third strand portion on the second layer with each thirdsegment extending between two different locations along the peripheraledge of the substrate to form a third layer on the second layer, thethird segments being convergent with the first segments and the secondsegments and disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to oneanother.

Clause 329: The method of Clause 328, wherein positioning the thirdsegments on the second layer includes applying the third segments at athird angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the substrate that isdifferent than the first angle and the second angle.

Clause 330: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinattaching the first strand portion to the substrate includes applyingfirst stitching and positioning the second strand portion on the firstlayer includes applying second stitching.

Clause 331: The method of Clause 330, wherein at least one of applyingthe first stitching and applying the second stitching includes applyingstitching that is formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 332: The method of Clause 330, wherein at least one of applyingthe first stitching and applying the second stitching includes applyingstitching that has a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 333: The method of Clause 330, wherein applying the firststitching includes zigzagging the first stitching across the firststrand portion between first attachment locations.

Clause 334: The method of Clause 330, wherein applying the secondstitching includes zigzagging the second stitching across the secondstrand portion between second attachment locations.

Clause 335: The method of Clause 330, wherein applying the secondstitching includes extending the second stitching through the firststrand portion.

Clause 336: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising applying at least one of heat and pressure to the firststrand portion and the second strand portion to bind the first strandportion to both the substrate and the second strand portion.

Clause 337: The method of Clause 336, wherein applying at least one ofheat and pressure includes forming the substrate, the first strandportion, and the second strand portion into a desired shape.

Clause 338: A method of forming a plate for an article of footwear, themethod comprising: a. attaching a first strand portion to a substrate toform a first layer on the substrate, the first strand portion forming afirst void in the first layer to expose the substrate within the firstvoid. The plate including an anterior-most point disposed in a forefootregion of the article of footwear, a posterior-most point disposedcloser to a heel region of the article of footwear than theanterior-most point, and a concave portion extending between theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point and including aconstant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point to ametatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the article of footwear, the MTPpoint opposing the MTP joint of a foot during use.

Clause 339: The method of Clause 338, further comprising positioning asecond strand portion on the first layer to form a second layer.

Clause 340: The method of Clause 339, further comprising forming thefirst strand portion and the second strand portion of the same,continuous strand.

Clause 341: The method of Clause 339, further comprising forming thefirst strand portion and the second strand portion from the samematerial.

Clause 342: The method of Clause 339, further comprising forming thefirst strand portion and the second strand portion from differentmaterials.

Clause 343: The method of Clause 339, further comprising providing thefirst strand portion and the second strand portion with differentlengths.

Clause 344: The method of Clause 339, further comprising providing thefirst strand portion and the second strand portion with approximatelythe same length.

Clause 345: The method of Clause 339, wherein positioning the secondstrand portion includes forming a second void in the second layer.

Clause 346: The method of Clause 345, further comprising aligning thesecond void with the first void to expose the substrate at the secondlayer.

Clause 347: The method of Clause 345, further comprising spacing thesecond void apart from the first void.

Clause 348: The method of Clause 339, wherein attaching the first strandportion includes applying the first strand portion to the substrate in afirst shape and positioning the second strand portion includes applyingthe second strand portion on the first layer in a second shape.

Clause 349: The method of Clause 348, wherein applying the first strandportion in the first shape and applying the second strand portion in thesecond shape includes applying the first strand portion and the secondstrand portion in approximately the same shape.

Clause 350: The method of Clause 348, wherein applying the first strandportion in the first shape and applying the second strand portion in thesecond shape includes applying the first strand portion and the secondstrand portion in different shapes.

Clause 351: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinattaching the first strand portion to the substrate includes applyingstitching.

Clause 352: The method of Clause 351, wherein applying stitchingincludes applying stitching formed from resin.

Clause 353: The method of Clause 351, wherein applying stitchingincludes applying stitching formed from the same material as thesubstrate.

Clause 354: The method of Clause 351, wherein applying stitchingincludes applying stitching having a higher melting point than thesubstrate.

Clause 355: The method of Clause 351, wherein applying stitchingincludes zigzagging the stitching across the first strand portionbetween first attachment locations located on the substrate.

Clause 356: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 357: The method of Clause 356, wherein forming the first strandportion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 358: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising positioning a second strand portion on the first layer toform a second layer, the second strand portion being formed from asecond tow of fibers.

Clause 359: The method of Clause 358, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 360: The method of Clause 358, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes providing approximatelythe same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 361: The method of Clause 358, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes providing a differentnumber of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 362: A method of forming an article of footwear, the methodcomprising: defining a first region and a second region on a substrate;attaching a first strand portion to the substrate in one of the firstregion and the second region including forming the first strand into afirst pattern that opposes the substrate and provides the one of thefirst region and the second region with first performancecharacteristics; and attaching a second strand portion to the substratein the other of the first region and the second region including formingthe second strand portion into a second pattern different than the firstpattern that opposes the substrate and provides the other of the firstregion and the second region with second performance characteristicsdifferent than the first performance characteristics.

Clause 363: The method of Clause 362, wherein forming the first strandportion includes forming a first edge to define a shape of the one ofthe first region and the second region.

Clause 364: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein formingthe second strand portion includes forming a second edge to define ashape of the other of the first region and the second region.

Clause 365: The method of Clause 364, further comprising spacing thefirst edge apart from the second edge.

Clause 366: The method of Clause 364, further comprising abutting thefirst edge against the second edge.

Clause 367: The method of and of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 368: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion from the same material.

Clause 369: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion from different materials.

Clause 370: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 371: The method of Clause 370, wherein forming the first strandportion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 372: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow offibers.

Clause 373: The method of Clause 372, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 374: The method of Clause 373, wherein forming the second strandfrom the second tow of fibers includes providing approximately the samenumber of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 375: The method of Clause 373, wherein forming the second strandfrom the second tow of fibers includes providing a different number offibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 376: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with different lengths.

Clause 377: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with approximately the same length.

Clause 378: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leastone of attaching the first strand portion to the substrate and attachingthe second strand portion to the substrate includes forming a void in atleast one of the first region and the second region.

Clause 379: The method of Clause 378, further comprising exposing thesubstrate within the void.

Clause 380: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with different thicknesses.

Clause 381: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with approximately the same thickness.

Clause 382: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first region and the second region withdifferent thicknesses.

Clause 383: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first region and the second region withapproximately the same thickness.

Clause 384: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising locating one of the first region and the second region in oneof a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a heel portion of thearticle of footwear and locating the other of the first region and thesecond region in another of the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion,and the heel portion of the article of footwear.

Clause 385: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via firststitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate viasecond stitching.

Clause 386: The method of Clause 385, wherein attaching the first strandportion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the secondstrand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes usingstitching formed from resin.

Clause 387: The method of Clause 385, wherein attaching the first strandportion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the secondstrand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes usingstitching formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 388: The method of Clause 385, wherein attaching the first strandportion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the secondstrand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes usingstitching having a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 389: The method of Clause 385, further comprising zigzagging thefirst stitching across the first strand portion and penetrating thesubstrate at first attachment locations that are spaced apart from thefirst strand portion.

Clause 390: The method of Clause 389, further comprising zigzagging thesecond stitching across the second strand portion and penetrating thesubstrate at second attachment locations that are spaced apart from thesecond strand portion.

Clause 391: The method of Clause 385, further comprising zigzagging thesecond stitching across the second strand portion and penetrating thesubstrate at second attachment locations that are spaced apart from thesecond strand portion.

Clause 392: A method of forming an article of footwear, the methodcomprising: attaching a first strand portion to a flexible substrate toform a first layer on the substrate; positioning the substrate on afirst mold surface to change a shape of the substrate; applying at leastone of heat and pressure to the first strand portion and the substrateto conform the substrate to the shape of the first mold surface; andincorporating the substrate into an article of footwear. The substrateincluding an anterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region, aposterior-most point disposed closer to a heel region than theanterior-most point, and a concave portion extending between theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point and including aconstant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point to ametatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the article of footwear, the MTPpoint opposing the MTP joint of a foot during use.

Clause 393: The method of Clause 392, further comprising attaching asecond strand portion to the substrate to form a second layer on thesubstrate;

Clause 394: The method of Clause 393, wherein attaching the secondstrand portion to the substrate includes attaching the second strandportion adjacent to the first strand portion.

Clause 395: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinattaching the second strand portion to the substrate includesoverlapping a least a portion of the second strand portion on the firststrand portion.

Clause 396: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 397: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion from the same material.

Clause 398: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion from different materials.

Clause 399: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 400: The method of Clause 399, wherein forming the first strandportion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 401: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow offibers.

Clause 402: The method of Clause 401, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 403: The method of Clause 402, wherein forming the second strandfrom the second tow of fibers includes providing approximately the samenumber of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 404: The method of Clause 402, wherein forming the second strandfrom the second tow of fibers includes providing a different number offibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 405: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with different lengths.

Clause 406: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with approximately the same length.

Clause 407: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leastone of attaching the first strand portion to the substrate and attachingthe second strand portion to the substrate includes forming a void in atleast one of the first layer and the second layer.

Clause 408: The method of Clause 407, further comprising exposing thesubstrate within the void.

Clause 409: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with different thicknesses.

Clause 410: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with approximately the same thickness.

Clause 411: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first layer and the second layer with differentthicknesses.

Clause 412: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first layer and the second layer withapproximately the same thickness.

Clause 413: The method of Clause 392, wherein conforming the substrateto the shape of the first mold surface includes providing the substratewith a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a heel portion.

Clause 414: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising attaching the first strand portion to the substrate via firststitching and attaching the second strand portion to the substrate viasecond stitching.

Clause 415: The method of Clause 414, wherein attaching the first strandportion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the secondstrand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes usingstitching formed from resin.

Clause 416: The method of any of Clause 414, wherein attaching the firststrand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching thesecond strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includesusing stitching formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 417: The method of any of Clause 414, wherein attaching the firststrand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching thesecond strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includesusing stitching having a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 418: The method of Clause 392, wherein applying at least one ofheat and pressure includes activating a resin material incorporated intothe first strand portion.

Clause 419: The method of Clause 392, further comprising infusing thefirst strand portion with a liquid material.

Clause 420: The method of Clause 419, wherein applying at least one ofheat and pressure includes subjecting the substrate and the first strandportion to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding tocure the liquid material.

Clause 421: The method of Clause 420, wherein curing the liquid materialincludes curing a thermoset material.

Clause 422: The method of Clause 421, wherein curing a thermosetmaterial includes curing at least one of an epoxy, a polyurethane, apolymerizable composition, and a pre-polymer.

Clause 423: The method of Clause 419, wherein infusing the first strandportion with a liquid material includes adding a polymer to the liquidmaterial to increase the ductility of the liquid material once cured.

Clause 424: The method of Clause 423, wherein adding a polymer to theliquid material includes adding at least one of rubber and a blockcopolymer.

Clause 425: The method of Clause 392, further comprising forming thesubstrate from a thermoplastic film.

Clause 426: The method of Clause 425, further comprising attaching thefirst strand portion to the thermoplastic film via stitching.

Clause 427: The method of Clause 426, wherein attaching the first strandportion to the thermoplastic film via stitching includes using stitchingformed from a thermoplastic material.

Clause 428: The method of Clause 427, wherein applying at least one ofheat and pressure to the first strand portion and the substrate includesthermoforming the thermoplastic film and the thermoplastic stitching tojoin the first strand portion to the substrate.

Clause 429: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applyingat least one of heat and pressure includes subjecting the substrate andthe first strand portion to at least one of vacuum molding andcompression molding.

Clause 430: A method of forming an article of footwear, the methodcomprising: attaching a first strand portion to a first substrate toform a first layer on the first substrate; attaching a second strandportion to a second substrate to form a second layer on the secondsubstrate; positioning the second substrate on the first substrate toform a substrate stack; positioning the substrate stack on a first moldsurface; applying at least one of heat and pressure to the substratestack to conform the substrate stack to the shape of the first moldsurface; and incorporating the substrate stack into an article offootwear. The substrate stack including an anterior-most point disposedin a forefoot region, a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heelregion than the anterior-most point, and a concave portion extendingbetween the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point andincluding a constant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point toa metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the article of footwear, the MTPpoint opposing the MTP joint of a foot during use.

Clause 431: The method of Clause 430, wherein applying at least one ofheat and pressure includes activating a resin material incorporated intothe first strand portion and the second strand portion.

Clause 432: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising infusing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with a liquid material.

Clause 433: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applyingat least one of heat and pressure includes subjecting the substratestack to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding to curethe liquid material.

Clause 434: The method of Clause 433, wherein curing the liquid materialincludes curing a thermoset material.

Clause 435: The method of Clause 434, wherein curing a thermosetmaterial includes curing at least one of an epoxy, a polyurethane, apolymerizable composition, and a pre-polymer.

Clause 436: The method of Clause 432, wherein infusing the first strandportion and the second strand portion with a liquid material includesadding a polymer to the liquid material to increase the ductility of theliquid material once cured.

Clause 437: The method of Clause 436, wherein adding a polymer to theliquid material includes adding at least one of rubber and a blockcopolymer.

Clause 438: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming at least one of the first substrate and the secondsubstrate from a thermoplastic film.

Clause 439: The method of Clause 438, further comprising attaching thefirst strand portion to the first substrate via first stitching andattaching the second strand portion to the second substrate via secondstitching.

Clause 440: The method of Clause 439, wherein attaching the first strandportion to the first substrate via first stitching and attaching thesecond strand portion to the second substrate via second stitchingincludes using stitching formed from a thermoplastic material.

Clause 441: The method of Clause 440, wherein applying at least one ofheat and pressure to the substrate stack includes thermoforming thethermoplastic film of the first substrate and the first stitching tojoin the first strand portion and the first substrate and thermoformingthe thermoplastic film of the second substrate and the second stitchingto join the second strand portion and the second substrate.

Clause 442: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate viafirst stitching and attaching the second strand portion to the secondsubstrate via second stitching.

Clause 443: The method of Clause 442, wherein attaching the first strandportion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching the secondstrand portion to the substrate via second stitching includes usingstitching formed from resin.

Clause 444: The method of any of Clause 442, wherein attaching the firststrand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching thesecond strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includesusing stitching formed from the same material as the substrate.

Clause 445: The method of any of Clause 442, wherein attaching the firststrand portion to the substrate via first stitching and attaching thesecond strand portion to the substrate via second stitching includesusing stitching having a higher melting point than the substrate.

Clause 446: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applyingat least one of heat and pressure includes activating a resin materialincorporated into at least one of the first strand portion and thesecond stand portion.

Clause 447: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applyingat least one of heat and pressure includes subjecting the substratestack to at least one of vacuum molding and compression molding.

Clause 448: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion from the same material.

Clause 449: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion from different materials.

Clause 450: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 451: The method of Clause 450, wherein forming the first strandportion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 452: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow offibers.

Clause 453: The method of Clause 452, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes forming the second strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 454: The method of Clause 453, wherein forming the second strandfrom the second tow of fibers includes providing approximately the samenumber of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 455: The method of Clause 453, wherein forming the second strandfrom the second tow of fibers includes providing a different number offibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 456: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with different lengths.

Clause 457: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with approximately the same length.

Clause 458: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leastone of attaching the first strand portion to the first substrate andattaching the second strand portion to the second substrate includesforming a void in at least one of the first layer and the second layer.

Clause 459: The method of Clause 458, further comprising exposing thesubstrate within the void.

Clause 460: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with different thicknesses.

Clause 461: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with approximately the same thickness.

Clause 462: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first layer and the second layer with differentthicknesses.

Clause 463: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first layer and the second layer withapproximately the same thickness.

Clause 464: The method of Clause 430, wherein conforming the substratestack to the shape of the first mold surface includes providing thesubstrate stack with a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a heelportion.

Clause 465: A method of forming a plate for an article of footwear, themethod comprising: providing a substrate having a forefoot region and aheel region; attaching a first strand portion to the substrate having aplurality of segments that extend between a first end disposed in theforefoot region and a second end disposed in the heel region; andcrossing the plurality of segments in a midfoot region disposed betweenthe forefoot region and the heel region. The plate including ananterior-most point disposed in the forefoot region of the article offootwear, a posterior-most point disposed closer to the heel region ofthe article of footwear than the anterior-most point, and a concaveportion extending between the anterior-most point and the posterior-mostpoint and including a constant radius of curvature from theanterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the articleof footwear, the MTP point opposing the MTP joint of a foot during use.

Clause 466: The method of Clause 465, wherein attaching the first strandportion to the substrate includes attaching a continuous strand.

Clause 467: The method of Clause 466, wherein attaching the first strandportion to the substrate includes joining respective first ends of theplurality of segments via first looped portions and joining respectivesecond ends of the plurality of segments via second looped portions toprovide the first strand portion with a continuous construction.

Clause 468: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising extending the first strand portion onto an upper of thearticle of footwear.

Clause 469: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising extending tensile strands between the first strand portionand an upper of the article of footwear.

Clause 470: The method of Clause 469, wherein extending tensile strandsbetween the first strand portion and the upper includes connecting thefirst strand portion and the upper via the tensile strands.

Clause 471: The method of Clause 469, further comprising attaching thetensile strands to the first strand portion along at least one of theplurality of segments between the first end and the second end of the atleast one of the plurality of segments.

Clause 472: The method of Clause 471, further comprising extending thetensile strands between a lace operable to move the upper between atightened state and a relaxed state and the at least one of theplurality of segments.

Clause 473: The method of Clause 472, wherein extending the tensilestrands between the lace and the at least one of the plurality ofsegments includes connecting the tensile strands to the lace and the atleast one of the plurality of segments.

Clause 474: The method of Clause 465, further comprising providing thesubstrate with cleat members that extend from a surface thereof.

Clause 475: The method of Clause 474, further comprising attaching thefirst strand portion to the surface of the substrate and extending thefirst strand portion around a portion of the cleat members.

Clause 476: The method of Clause 474, further comprising attaching thefirst strand portion to the surface of the substrate and surrounding atleast one of the cleat members with the first strand portion.

Clause 477: The method of Clause 474, further comprising attaching thefirst strand portion to the surface of the substrate and surrounding atleast one of the cleat members with at least one of the plurality ofsegments.

Clause 478: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising weaving the plurality of segments together at the midfootregion.

Clause 479: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibers.

Clause 480: The method of Clause 479, wherein forming the first strandportion from the first tow of fibers includes forming the first strandportion from at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers,and polymeric fibers.

Clause 481: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinattaching the first strand portion to the substrate includes forming atleast one void between at least two of the segments.

Clause 482: The method of Clause 481, further comprising exposing thesubstrate within the at least one void.

Clause 483: The method of Clause 481, further comprising defining the atleast one void between a first bundle of the plurality of segments and asecond bundle of the plurality of segments.

Clause 484: The method of Clause 483, further comprising exposing thesubstrate within the at least one void.

Clause 485: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising: asubstrate; a first strand portion attached to the substrate via firststitching and including first segments that each extend between twodifferent locations along the substrate to form a first layer on thesubstrate; and a second strand portion disposed on the first layer andincluding second segments that each extend between two differentlocations along the substrate to form a second layer on the first layer.

Clause 486: The plate of Clause 485, wherein the first stitching crossesover the first strand portion and penetrates the substrate at firstattachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strandportion.

Clause 487: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein thesecond strand portion is attached to the substrate via second stitchingthat crosses over the second strand portion, extends through the firststrand portion, and penetrates the substrate at second attachmentlocations.

Clause 488: The plate of Clause 487, wherein at least one of the firststitching and the second stitching has a higher melting point than thesubstrate.

Clause 489: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are portions of the same,continuous strand.

Clause 490: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers including at leastone of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

Clause 491: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein thesecond strand portion is formed from a second tow of fibers including atleast one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymericfibers.

Clause 492: The plate of Clause 491, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow offibers.

Clause 493: The plate of Clause 491, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 494: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion include looped portionsdisposed proximate to a peripheral edge of the substrate, the loopedportions connecting adjacent first segments and adjacent secondsegments.

Clause 495: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leasttwo adjacent first segments and/or at least two adjacent second segmentsare disconnected at a peripheral edge of the substrate.

Clause 496: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firstlayer has a first density of first segments applied to the substrate andthe second layer has a second density of second segments applied to thefirst layer that is different than the first layer.

Clause 497: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firstsegments are applied to the substrate at a first angle relative to alongitudinal axis of the substrate and the second segments are appliedto the first layer at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axisof the substrate that is different than the first angle.

Clause 498: The plate of Clause 497, further comprising a third strandportion disposed on the second layer and including third segments thateach extend between two different locations along the substrate to forma third layer on the second layer, the third segments being convergentwith the first segments and the second segments and disposed adjacentand substantially parallel to one another.

Clause 499: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising a polymeric resin consolidating the first strand portion, thesecond strand portion, and the substrate to form a composite when heatand pressure is applied.

Clause 500: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion forms a first void in the first layer.

Clause 501: The plate of Clause 500, wherein the second strand portionforms a second void in the second layer that is aligned with the firstvoid or spaced apart from the first void.

Clause 502: The plate of Clause 500, wherein the substrate is exposed orabsent within the first void.

Clause 503: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the plateincludes: an anterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region of thearticle of footwear; a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heelregion of the article of footwear than the anterior-most point; and aconcave portion extending between the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point and including a constant radius of curvature fromthe anterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of thearticle of footwear, the MTP point opposing the MTP joint of a footduring use.

Clause 504: The plate of Clause 503, wherein the plate includes asubstantially flat portion disposed within the heel region of thearticle of footwear, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.

Clause 505: The plate of Clause 503, wherein the MTP point is locatedapproximately thirty percent (30%) of the total length of the plate fromthe anterior-most point.

Clause 506: The plate of Clause 503, further comprising a cushioninglayer disposed at least partially within the concave portion.

Clause 507: The plate of Clause 506, wherein the cushioning layerdefines a greatest thickness proximate to the MTP point.

Clause 508: A method of forming an article of footwear, the methodcomprising: attaching a first strand portion to a flexible substrate toform a first layer on the substrate; positioning a second strand portionon the first layer to form a second layer on the first layer;positioning the substrate on a first mold surface to change a shape ofthe substrate; applying at least one of heat and pressure to the firststrand portion, the second strand portion and the substrate to conformthe substrate to the shape of the first mold surface; and incorporatingthe substrate into an article of footwear. The substrate including ananterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region, a posterior-mostpoint disposed closer to a heel region than the anterior-most point, anda concave portion extending between the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point and including a constant radius of curvature fromthe anterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of thearticle of footwear, the MTP point opposing the MTP joint of a footduring use.

Clause 509: The method of Clause 508, wherein attaching the first strandportion to the flexible substrate includes attaching the first strandportion to the flexible substrate via first stitching crosses over thefirst strand portion and penetrates the substrate at first attachmentlocations that are spaced apart from the first strand portion.

Clause 510: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinpositioning the second portion on the first layer includes attaching thefirst strand portion to the flexible substrate via second stitching thatcrosses over the second strand portion, extends through the first strandportion, and penetrates the substrate at second attachment locations.

Clause 511: The method of Clause 508, further comprising attaching thesecond strand portion to a second substrate to form a second layer onthe second substrate, wherein positioning the second strand portion onthe first layer includes positioning the second substrate on the firstlayer.

Clause 512: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 513: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibersincluding at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 514: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow of fibersincluding at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 515: The method of Clause 514, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes providing approximatelythe same number of fibers as the first tow fibers.

Clause 516: The method of Clause 514, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes providing a differentnumber of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 517: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with looped portions disposed proximate to a peripheral edge ofthe substrate, the looped portions connecting adjacent first segmentsand adjacent second segments.

Clause 518: The method of Clause 517, further comprising removing atleast one of the looped portions that extends outside the peripheraledge of the substrate to define an outer edge of the plate.

Clause 519: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first layer and the second layer with segmentshaving different densities.

Clause 520: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinattaching the first strand portion includes applying first segments ofthe first strand portion to the substrate at a first angle relative to alongitudinal axis of the substrate and positioning the second strandportion includes applying second segments of the second strand portionto the first layer at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axisof the substrate that is different than the first angle.

Clause 521: The method of Clause 520, further comprising positioning athird strand portion on the second layer including positioning thirdsegments of the third strand portion on the second layer with each thirdsegment extending between two different locations along the peripheraledge of the substrate to form a third layer on the second layer, thethird segments being convergent with the first segments and the secondsegments and disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to oneanother.

Clause 522: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applyingat least one of heat and pressure includes activating a polymeric resinincorporated into the first strand portion and the second strandportion.

Clause 523: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising infusing the first strand portion, the second strand portionand the substrate with a liquid material, the liquid material being athermoset material.

Clause 524: The method of Clause 523, wherein applying at least one ofheat and pressure includes subjecting the first strand portion, thesecond strand portion, and the substrate to at least one of vacuummolding and compression molding to cure the thermoset material.

Clause 525: The method of Clause 508, further comprising forming thesubstrate from a thermoplastic film.

Clause 526: The method of Clause 525, wherein attaching the first strandportion includes attaching the first strand portion to the thermoplasticfilm using stitching formed from a thermoplastic material.

Clause 527: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applyingat least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion, thesecond strand portion, and the substrate includes subjecting the firststrand portion, the second strand portion to at least one of vacuummolding and compression molding.

Clause 528: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinattaching the first strand portion to the substrate and positioning thesecond strand portion to the substrate includes forming a void in atleast one of the first layer and the second layer.

Clause 529: The method of Clause 528, further comprising exposing thesubstrate within the void.

Clause 530: The method of Clause 528, further comprising removing theexposed portion of the substrate within the void.

Clause 531: A plate for an article of footwear, the plate comprising asubstrate, a first strand portion attached to the substrate via firststitching and including first segments that each extend between twodifferent locations along the substrate to form a first layer on thesubstrate, a second strand portion disposed on the first layer andincluding second segments that each extend between two differentlocations along the substrate to form a second layer on the first layer.

Clause 532: The plate of Clause 531, wherein the first stitching crossesover the first strand portion and penetrates the substrate at firstattachment locations that are spaced apart from the first strandportion.

Clause 533: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein thesecond strand portion is attached to the substrate via second stitchingthat crosses over the second strand portion, extends through the firststrand portion, and penetrates the substrate at second attachmentlocations.

Clause 534: The plate of Clause 533, wherein at least one of the firststitching and the second stitching has a higher melting point than thesubstrate.

Clause 535: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion are portions of the same,continuous strand.

Clause 536: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion is formed from a first tow of fibers including at leastone of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymeric fibers.

Clause 537: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein thesecond strand portion is formed from a second tow of fibers including atleast one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymericfibers.

Clause 538: The plate of Clause 537, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes approximately the same number of fibers as the first tow offibers.

Clause 539: The plate of Clause 537, wherein the second tow of fibersincludes a different number of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 540: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion and the second strand portion include looped portionsdisposed proximate to a peripheral edge of the substrate, the loopedportions connecting adjacent first segments and adjacent secondsegments.

Clause 541: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein at leasttwo adjacent first segments and/or at least two adjacent second segmentsare disconnected at a peripheral edge of the substrate.

Clause 542: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firstlayer has a first density of first segments applied to the substrate andthe second layer has a second density of second segments applied to thefirst layer that is different than the first layer.

Clause 543: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firstsegments are applied to the substrate at a first angle relative to alongitudinal axis of the substrate and the second segments are appliedto the first layer at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axisof the substrate that is different than the first angle.

Clause 544: The plate of Clause 543, further comprising a third strandportion disposed on the second layer and including third segments thateach extend between two different locations along the substrate to forma third layer on the second layer, the third segments being convergentwith the first segments and the second segments and disposed adjacentand substantially parallel to one another.

Clause 545: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising a polymeric resin consolidating the first strand portion, thesecond strand portion, and the substrate to form a composite when heatand pressure is applied.

Clause 546: The plate of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the firststrand portion forms a first void in the first layer.

Clause 547: The plate of Clause 546, wherein the second strand portionforms a second void in the second layer that is aligned with the firstvoid or spaced apart from the first void.

Clause 548: The plate of Clause 546, wherein the substrate is exposed orabsent within the first void

Clause 549: A method of forming an article of footwear, the methodcomprising attaching a first strand portion to a flexible substrate toform a first layer on the substrate, positioning a second strand portionon the first layer to form a second layer on the first layer,positioning the substrate on a first mold surface to change a shape ofthe substrate, applying at least one of heat and pressure to the firststrand portion, the second strand portion and the substrate to conformthe substrate to the shape of the first mold surface, and incorporatingthe substrate into an article of footwear. The substrate including ananterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region, a posterior-mostpoint disposed closer to a heel region than the anterior-most point, anda concave portion extending between the anterior-most point and theposterior-most point and including a constant radius of curvature fromthe anterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of thearticle of footwear, the MTP point opposing the MTP joint of a footduring use.

Clause 550: The method of Clause 549, wherein attaching the first strandportion to the flexible substrate includes attaching the first strandportion to the flexible substrate via first stitching crosses over thefirst strand portion and penetrates the substrate at first attachmentlocations that are spaced apart from the first strand portion.

Clause 551: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinpositioning the second portion on the first layer includes attaching thefirst strand portion to the flexible substrate via second stitching thatcrosses over the second strand portion, extends through the first strandportion, and penetrates the substrate at second attachment locations.

Clause 552: The method of Clause 549, further comprising attaching thesecond strand portion to a second substrate to form a second layer onthe second substrate, wherein positioning the second strand portion onthe first layer includes positioning the second substrate on the firstlayer.

Clause 553: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion and the second strandportion of the same, continuous strand.

Clause 554: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the first strand portion from a first tow of fibersincluding at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 555: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising forming the second strand portion from a second tow of fibersincluding at least one of carbon fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, andpolymeric fibers.

Clause 556: The method of Clause 555, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes providing approximatelythe same number of fibers as the first tow of fibers.

Clause 557: The method of Clause 555, wherein forming the second strandportion from the second tow of fibers includes providing a differentnumber of fibers than the first tow of fibers.

Clause 558: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first strand portion and the second strandportion with looped portions disposed proximate to a peripheral edge ofthe substrate, the looped portions connecting adjacent first segmentsand adjacent second segments.

Clause 559: The method of Clause 558, further comprising removing atleast one of the looped portions that extends outside the peripheraledge of the substrate to define an outer edge of the plate.

Clause 560: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising providing the first layer and the second layer with segmentshaving different densities.

Clause 561: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinattaching the first strand portion includes applying first segments ofthe first strand portion to the substrate at a first angle relative to alongitudinal axis of the substrate and positioning the second strandportion includes applying second segments of the second strand portionto the first layer at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axisof the substrate that is different than the first angle.

Clause 562: The method of Clause 561, further comprising positioning athird strand portion on the second layer including positioning thirdsegments of the third strand portion on the second layer with each thirdsegment extending between two different locations along the peripheraledge of the substrate to form a third layer on the second layer, thethird segments being convergent with the first segments and the secondsegments and disposed adjacent and substantially parallel to oneanother.

Clause 563: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applyingat least one of heat and pressure includes activating a polymeric resinincorporated into the first strand portion and the second strandportion.

Clause 564: The method of any of the preceding clauses, furthercomprising infusing the first strand portion, the second strand portionand the substrate with a liquid material, the liquid material being athermoset material.

Clause 565: The method of Clause 564, wherein applying at least one ofheat and pressure includes subjecting the first strand portion, thesecond strand portion, and the substrate to at least one of vacuummolding and compression molding to cure the thermoset material.

Clause 566: The method of Clause 549, further comprising forming thesubstrate from a thermoplastic film.

Clause 567: The method of Clause 566, wherein attaching the first strandportion includes attaching the first strand portion to the thermoplasticfilm using stitching formed from a thermoplastic material.

Clause 568: The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein applyingat least one of heat and pressure to the first strand portion, thesecond strand portion, and the substrate includes subjecting the firststrand portion, the second strand portion to at least one of vacuummolding and compression molding.

Clause 569: The method of any of the preceding clauses, whereinattaching the first strand portion to the substrate and positioning thesecond strand portion to the substrate includes forming a void in atleast one of the first layer and the second layer.

Clause 570: The method Clause 569 further comprising exposing thesubstrate within the void.

Clause 571: The method of Clause 569, further comprising removing theexposed portion of the substrate within the void.

The foregoing description has been provided for purposes of illustrationand description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit thedisclosure. Individual elements or features of a particularconfiguration are generally not limited to that particularconfiguration, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can beused in a selected configuration, even if not specifically shown ordescribed. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations arenot to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all suchmodifications are intended to be included within the scope of thedisclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of forming a sole structure for anarticle of footwear, the method comprising: positioning a first tow offibers on a substrate at a first angle relative to a longitudinal axisof the substrate, and securing the first tow of fibers via a first setof stitches to form a first layer on the substrate; positioning a secondtow of fibers on the first layer at a second angle different than thefirst angle, and securing the second tow of fibers via a second set ofstitches to form a second layer on the first layer; positioning a thirdtow of fibers on the second layer at a third angle different than thesecond angle to form a third layer on the second layer; forming thefirst layer, the second layer, the third layer, and the substrate into aplate having an anterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region of thesole structure, a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heel regionof the sole structure than the anterior-most point, and a concaveportion extending between the anterior-most point and the posterior-mostpoint and including a constant radius of curvature from theanterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the solestructure that opposes the MTP joint of a foot during use; and providingthe plate with a first cushioning layer.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein providing the plate with the first cushioning layer includesproviding the first cushioning layer at the concave portion of theplate.
 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising providing the solestructure with an upper, and wherein providing the first cushioninglayer at the concave portion of the plate includes providing the firstcushioning layer between the concave portion and the upper.
 4. Themethod of claim 1, wherein positioning the third tow of fibers on thesecond layer at the third angle includes positioning the third tow offibers at the third angle that is different from the first angle of thefirst tow of fibers.
 5. The method of claim 1, further comprisingforming the anterior-most point co-planar with the posterior-most point.6. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing the plate with asubstantially flat portion disposed within the heel region of the solestructure, the posterior-most point being located within thesubstantially flat portion.
 7. The method of claim 6, further comprisingproviding the plate with a blend portion disposed between the concaveportion and the substantially flat portion, the blend portion includinga substantially constant curvature.
 8. The method of claim 7, whereinproviding the plate with the blend portion includes providing the platewith the blend portion having a radius of curvature equal to about 134millimeters (mm).
 9. The method of claim 7, further comprising formingthe anterior-most point and the posterior-most point coplanar with ajunction of the blend portion and the substantially flat portion. 10.The method of claim 7, further comprising providing the sole structurewith an upper and a ground-contacting surface, and further comprisingproviding a second cushioning layer between the substantially flatportion and at least one of the upper and the ground-contacting surface.11. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing the solestructure with a ground-contacting surface, and further comprisingproviding a second cushioning layer between the plate and theground-contacting surface, the second cushioning layer disposed on anopposite side of the plate than the first cushioning layer.
 12. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising incorporating the sole structureinto the article of footwear.
 13. A method of forming a sole structurefor an article of footwear, the method comprising: positioning a firsttow of fibers on a substrate at a first angle relative to a longitudinalaxis of the substrate, and securing the first tow of fibers via a firstset of stitches to form a first layer on the substrate; positioning asecond tow of fibers on the first layer at a second angle different thanthe first angle, and securing the second tow of fibers via a second setof stitches to form a second layer on the first layer; positioning athird tow of fibers on the second layer at a third angle different thanthe second angle to form a third layer on the second layer; forming thefirst layer, the second layer, the third layer, and the substrate into aplate having an anterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region of thesole structure, a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heel regionof the sole structure than the anterior-most point, and a curved portionextending between the anterior-most point and the posterior-most pointand including a constant radius of curvature from the anterior-mostpoint to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure thatopposes the MTP joint of a foot during use; and providing the plate witha first cushioning layer.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein providingthe plate with the first cushioning layer includes providing the firstcushioning layer at the curved portion of the plate.
 15. The method ofclaim 14, further comprising providing the sole structure with an upper,and wherein providing the first cushioning layer at the curved portionof the plate includes providing the first cushioning layer between thecurved portion and the upper.
 16. The method of claim 13, whereinpositioning the third tow of fibers on the second layer at the thirdangle includes positioning the third tow of fibers at the third anglethat is different from the first angle of the first tow of fibers. 17.The method of claim 13, further comprising forming the anterior-mostpoint co-planar with the posterior-most point.
 18. The method of claim13, further comprising providing the plate with a substantially flatportion disposed within the heel region of the sole structure, theposterior-most point being located within the substantially flatportion.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising providing theplate with a blend portion disposed between the curved portion and thesubstantially flat portion, the blend portion including a substantiallyconstant curvature.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein providing theplate with the blend portion includes providing the plate with the blendportion having a radius of curvature equal to about 134 millimeters(mm).
 21. The method of claim 19, further comprising forming theanterior-most point and the posterior-most point coplanar with ajunction of the blend portion and the substantially flat portion. 22.The method of claim 19, further comprising providing the sole structurewith an upper and a ground-contacting surface, and further comprisingproviding a second cushioning layer between the substantially flatportion and at least one of the upper and the ground-contacting surface.23. The method of claim 13, further comprising providing the solestructure with a ground-contacting surface, and further comprisingproviding a second cushioning layer between the plate and theground-contacting surface, the second cushioning layer disposed on anopposite side of the plate than the first cushioning layer.
 24. Themethod of claim 13, further comprising incorporating the sole structureinto the article of footwear.